The “Pauline Year,” a celebration of the life of Saint Paul, believed to have been born 2,000 years ago, began on the Feast of Sts. Peter and Paul, June 29. Here is Pope Benedict’s reflection on Paul, for that feast day, in which he reminds us that the question for Christians to ask is not simply “Who was Paul?” but “Who is Paul?” As usual, Benedict is at his best when reflecting on these theological questions in a way that helps everday Christians understand, and live out, their faith more fully. The translation by Zenit here is thanks to Catholic.net. James Martin, S.J.

The Rev. James Martin, S.J., is a Jesuit priest, author, editor at large at America and founder of Outreach.