Learning through Art: The Conversion of St. Paul by Caravaggio

Authored by Dr. Caroline Farey in Issue #30.2 of The Sower

This painting by Caravaggio tells the historical story of what happened to St Paul, before he was baptized, while he was still called Saul. The story is related three times in the New Testament each time with slightly different detail and emphasis: in Acts 9:1-19; 22:5-16; 26:12-18. Most of all, this is one of the most powerful depictions of the essential characteristics of Christian conversion.

One way to begin using this painting, for adults or children, would be to have the story read slowly, out-loud, following the drama of Saul’s encounter with Christ, while pointing out step by step how the conversion is portrayed in the picture.

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This article is from The Sower and may be copied for catechetical purposes only. It may not be reprinted in another published work without the permission of Maryvale Institute. Contact [email protected]

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Learning through Art: The Conversion of St. Paul by Caravaggio

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