There are three accounts of the conversion of St Paul in the New Testament. Here is part of the first one, in the book of Acts:

‘Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest and asked him for letters to the synagogues at Damascus, so that if he found any belonging to the Way, men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem. Now as he journeyed he approached Damascus, and suddenly a light from heaven flashed about him. And he fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?” And he said, “Who are you, Lord?” And he said, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting; but rise and enter the city, and you will be told what you are to do.” The men who were travelling with him stood speechless, hearing the voice but seeing no one. Saul arose from the ground; and when his eyes were opened, he could see nothing; so they led him by the hand and brought him into Damascus. And for three days he was without sight, and neither ate nor drank’.

All of us have conversion moments, great and small, which may recur throughout our lives; and indeed one of the pillars of Benedictine life is conversion. It is recognised that it takes a lifetime …

By the grace of God, may we live out our conversion fully, and may God bless you this day.