# Conversion of Paul (c. 34)

URL: https://christianity-history.com/timeline/34-conversion-of-paul
Location: Road to Damascus, Syria
Themes: Persecution

Saul of Tarsus, a Pharisee who persecuted Christians, experiences a vision of the risen Jesus on the road to Damascus and becomes the apostle Paul. At this point in the timeline (c. 34), the Bishop of Rome was Saint Peter (c. 30 – c. 64). Dates for the earliest bishops of Rome are traditional and uncertain.

## Why it matters
Paul became the most influential missionary and writer of the early church.

Pope at the time: [Saint Peter](https://christianity-history.com/popes/saint-peter)

## Sources
- [Wikipedia — Conversion of Paul the Apostle](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Conversion_of_Paul_the_Apostle)
- [Encyclopaedia Britannica topic lookup — Conversion of Paul](https://www.britannica.com/search?query=Conversion+of+Paul)
- [Wikipedia — Apostolic Age (period overview)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Apostolic_Age)