Apostle Paul (Koufos) Icon - S617

Although St. Paul was not one of the original Apostles, called while Jesus was on earth, he is known today as a chief Apostle, and his works were vital in the church’s beginning.

Paul, known at that time as Saul, was a Roman citizen who persecuted Christians for some time after the Ascension. But, while travelling to Damascus in search of believers to arrest, he was struck with a vision of Christ and made blind for several days. Shaken, Saul repented of his actions, and was moved to convert to the same faith he had persecuted. As he was baptized, his sight was restored. Eventually, he was a given the name Paul, and became a strong Christian leader and teacher.

Like all the Apostles, Paul suffered persecution himself, and was placed under house arrest in Rome. During this long period, Paul performed his ministry from a distance. He wrote letters to a large network of developing churches and disciples. While Paul dealt with problems and issues specific to the people and communities he wrote to at the time, many of these topics are still relevant to the faithful today. Paul’s Epistles, letters, are now a significant part of the New Testament. Having left this written legacy behind him, St. Paul was finally martyred in Rome.

St. Paul’s high, round forehead and pointed beard are easily recognized in many of his icons. Like the Evangelists, he holds a Gospel, as if offering it outward.

This icon was painted by Fr. Theodore Koufos of blessed memory. Offered by permission.