Feast of St. Paul’s Shipwreck 2023 Malta: Date, History, Importance

The feast of Saint Paul’s Shipwreck is observed annually on February 10. Malta is renowned for honouring its history, preserving its Christian identity, and sustaining its long-standing customs. The Maltese believe that the apostle Paul was shipwrecked off the island’s coast, and they celebrate this event with a huge festival. The city’s strongest men transport a colossal statue of the famed evangelist. In Malta, it is referred to as San Pawl Nawfragu.

HISTORY OF FEAST OF ST. PAUL’S SHIPWRECK

According to the Bible, St. Paul got trapped in a storm while travelling from Jerusalem to Rome. The winds carried the ship to the little island of Malta, where the welcoming Maltese welcomed Saint Paul with open arms.

Paul’s shipwreck and three-month winter stay in Malta are described in Acts 27:27–28:11. He was carried as a prisoner to Rome, where he would stand trial before Caesar. Paul prayed for the protection of all on board the ship, and his prayer was granted, as the ship never reached its destination but instead landed on the coast of Malta.

This is not the only account of Saint Paul and Malta. While visiting Malta, Paul was once bitten by a poisonous snake. St. Paul reputedly removed the snake from his hand without suffering any injuries. Paul remained in Malta for three months before continuing his journeys. St. Paul is credited with establishing the first Christian community in the Maltese Islands, making them one of the earliest Roman colonies to adopt Christianity. Paul, the patron saint of Malta, is also venerated as the patron saint of victims bitten by snakes.

5 FACTS ABOUT ST. PAUL’S SHIPWRECK

Saint Paul’s Shipwreck is commemorated by the “Parish Church of Saint Paul Shipwrecked” in Valletta, the capital city of Malta.

Apostle Paul was renowned for his medicinal powers; he cured the father of Saint Publius of dysentery, for example.

There is some archaeological evidence to corroborate a number of Maltese legends.

Paul is said to have sought refuge in a cave, where he was bitten by a snake but was miraculously untouched by the bite, according to the legend.

According to Maltese legend, St. Paul established a Christian community on the island.

FEAST OF ST. PAUL’S SHIPWRECK DATES