Feast of the Conversion of Saint Paul |26 January 2024

Reverend Brian Volcère inside the St Paul’s Cathedral

Christians yesterday marked the Feast of the Conversion of Saint Paul the Apostle. A special mass took place at St Paul’s Cathedral in Victoria, led by Reverend Brian Volcère.

Reverend Volcère, the rector of St Paul’s Cathedral, shared that St Paul, recognised as the Apostle to the Gentiles, was born in Tarsus, a Roman city, thereby possessing Roman citizenship.

“Following his circumcision, he was given the Hebrew name Saul. Saul’s conversion occurred when he was on his way to the city of Damascus.  He was a philosopher and his radical transformation is demonstrative of the extraordinary redemptive power of the Gospel. He was instrumental in spreading the gospel of Jesus far and wide. He addressed, and fixed, the problems which arose as the early Church grew and became established. Paul worked tirelessly to extend Christianity beyond the Jewish world.”

Reverend Volcère shared that St Paul is a pillar in Christianity and his life is a reminder for all of us that even though there are challenges, we will be guided by God to win the race.

Throughout the weekend, various masses will commemorate St Paul’s life, including services on Saturday at 4pm, Sunday at 7am, and 9am. President Wavel Ramkalawan will preside over the Sunday mass.

St Paul’s Cathedral, a prominent landmark, serves as both the cathedral of the diocese and the Anglican parish church of Victoria, Mahé. The original church, consecrated to the apostle St. Paul, once stood on the current site and was blessed on May 14, 1859 by Vincent William Ryan, the first bishop of Mauritius.

Expanded twice, in 1910 with a new tower and in 1978 with an offset altar, the church faced space constraints and expensive maintenance. In 2001, a decision was made to completely renew the structure. Financed by generous contributions from the government and private individuals, the cathedral was blessed on April 25, 2004, providing double the capacity for 800 people.

Vidya Gappy

Photo: Joena Meme