Archconfraternity

"Dear brothers and sisters, as in early times, today too Christ needs apostles ready to sacrifice themselves. He needs witnesses and martyrs like Saint Paul, a former violent persecutor of Christians, when he fell to the ground dazzled by the divine light on the road to Damascus, did not hesitate to change sides to the Crucified One and followed him without second thoughts. He lived and worked for Christ, for him he suffered and died. How timely his example is today!"

Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls, June 28, 2007
 
The Archconfraternity of the Apostle Paul has been established to serve as the spiritual apostolate of the National Shrine of the Apostle Paul. The primary purposes are to assist and encourage its members in their Christian discipleship by fostering:

1. Greater devotion to our patron Saint Paul, calling upon his intercession among the Communion of Saints
2. Study of and reflection on the Pauline Epistles in the New Testament
3. Practice of the corporal and spiritual works of mercy, according to the state of life and practical circumstances of each member
4. Commitment to evangelization, primarily by bringing the hope of the Cross and Resurrection of Jesus Christ to people through everyday encounters
5. Connection with the spiritual life of the National Shrine of the Apostle Paul

Membership benefits include but are not limited to the following:

1. Remembrance during the Eucharistic Sacrifice of the Mass at the National Shrine: monthly on the First Saturday, as well as on the Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul (June 29), the Feast of the Conversion of Saint Paul (January 25), and All Souls Day (November 2)
2. Remembrance at a monthly Mass at the Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls in Rome, where the Apostle Paul is buried
3. Invitation to all Spiritual and Faith Formation Programs conducted under the auspices of the National Shrine
4. Opportunity to enjoy special tours when on pilgrimage to the National Shrine