Event created by madPete
The feast of St. Paul’s Shipwreck is celebrated every year on February 10. Malta is well known for commemorating its history, retaining its Christian identity, and upholding its long-standing traditions. The Maltese say that the apostle Paul shipwrecked off the island’s coast, and they hold a grand festival to commemorate this event. A massive statue of the legendary evangelist is carried about town by the city’s toughest men. In Malta, it’s called ‘San Pawl Nawfragu.’
History of Feast of St. Paul's Shipwreck
According to the Bible, St Paul was caught in a storm while on his way to Rome from his home in Jerusalem. The ship was swept onto the tiny island of Malta by the winds, and the Maltese, well-known for being hospitable people, greeted St Paul with open arms.
Acts 27:27 through 28:11 tell the story of Paul’s shipwreck and three-month winter stay in Malta. As a prisoner, he was transported to Rome, where he would be brought before Caesar for trial. Paul prayed for the safety of those aboard the ship and his request was heeded, for the ship never arrived at its destination, but rather, it ended up on the shores of Malta.
This isn’t the only story told regarding St. Paul and Malta. Once, while Paul was visiting Malta, he was bitten by a venomous snake. St. Paul allegedly swiped the snake off his hand and was not wounded in any way. St. Paul stayed in Malta for three months before departing to continue his travels. Historically, St Paul is credited with founding the first Christian community in the Maltese Islands, making the island one of the earliest Roman colonies to embrace the faith. Malta’s patron saint, Paul himself, is also revered as the patron saint of those who’ve been bitten by snakes.
https://nationaltoday.com/feast-of-st-pauls-shipwreck/
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