Sequence 43. The Conversion of St. Paul

January 25TH.
LET us joy, that Saviour praising,
Hope in sinners' bosoms raising,
That they pardon will obtain.

When He Saul severely chided,
And, converted, called and guided
Back to Mother-Church again.

Saul, still threats and slaughter breathing,
With blood-thirsty purpose seething,
'Gainst the Lord's disciples tried,
Powers obtained for apprehending,
And, when bound, with torture rending
Those who served the Crucified.

As he journeyed, Jesus struck him
To the earth, and, to rebuke him,
With His radiance made him blind ;
Till, once more his feet regaining.

He, a guiding hand obtaining.
In a lodging is confined.

He laments, fasts, prays, believeth,
Is baptized, his sight receiveth ;
Changed to Paul that Saul became
Who had been our flock's oppressor ;
Paul, henceforth our law's professor.

Into Paul thus changed his name.
Therefore, Paul, the Gentiles' teacher !

Chosen vessel ! as our preacher,
Light on our dark hearts outpour ;
And, for us thy prayers employing,
Life for us obtain, destroying
Death that lasteth evermore ! Amen.