In the heart of Damascus, the world’s oldest capital, a day rich in spirituality, culture, and joy unfolded. On the occasion of the Feast of the Conversion of Saint Paul, catechists from the Jesuit monasteries in Homs—the Monastery of Saint John Francis Regis and the Monastery of the Savior—gathered to celebrate Saint Paul, the Apostle to the Nations.

Our journey began with a spiritual pilgrimage in the footsteps of Saul of Tarsus, who had set out to persecute Christians in Damascus but, through a divine encounter with Christ, was transformed from a persecutor into a disciple. We visited the Church of the Conversion of Saint Paul in Tabbala, believed to be the site where he found refuge after escaping from the city walls. We then made our way to the Church of Saint Paul in Bab Kisan, where tradition holds that he was lowered in a basket to evade capture, as recorded in Scripture. Our pilgrimage culminated at the Church of Saint Ananias, the place where he was baptized and fully embraced the Christian faith.

We concluded our spiritual journey with the Holy Mass at the Franciscan Church in Bab Touma (Church of the Conversion of Saint Paul). Father Tony Homsi, S.J., presided over the celebration, joined by Father Emile Fawzi, S.J., the current Education Officer, and Father Vincent Beaucaudre, S.J., who dedicated many years to directing Christian education in Homs. In his homily, Father Tony reflected on the deeply personal nature of Saint Paul’s conversion, highlighting its significance as a cornerstone of Christian education. He noted that the Book of Acts recounts Paul’s conversion three times, each in a different style and context, demonstrating the apostle’s wisdom in adapting his testimony to his audience. Father Tony further emphasized the importance of our own living witness in shaping the faith of the children we teach, as well as in fostering dialogue and unity among Christians and non-Christians—especially in light of Syria’s evolving social landscape and the renewed opportunities for encounter and understanding.

Following the spiritual program, the group explored the rich cultural heritage of Damascus. We visited Al-Azm Palace, a magnificent museum showcasing the city's history and artistry, and then proceeded to the Umayyad Mosque, built upon the foundations of a Byzantine cathedral, where the tomb of John the Baptist remains to this day. The day concluded with a joyful walk through the bustling old markets of Damascus, filled with visitors and the sounds and scents of tradition.

Refreshed in the spirit of Saint Paul, the catechists ended their day renewed in faith and ready to share his message with the world. Saint Paul’s legacy reminds us that believers are not isolated individuals but essential parts of a greater apostolic mission. His call to conversion, prayer, and communion with Christ resonates today as an enduring invitation: to seek the Lord, to walk in His grace, and to bear the banner of the cross with courage and love