Vatican City – By proclaiming a year dedicated to St. Paul, Pope Benedict brought attention to a Biblical figure who often has been off the Church's radar.

St Paul's letter to the Galatians contains his most extended autobiographical remarks, remarks he makes to defend his role as an apostle.

Many priests, when asked about the roots of their vocations, say that as young boys they would pretend to celebrate the Mass. I did that too although I never darkened the door of a seminary later in life.

One of the greatest gifts the Lord has given to me is the privilege of being a father. Within that gift is the joy that comes when one of my four girls turns their attention to my fatherhood.

Over the next three weeks – from Sept. 1 to 20 – the First Reading at daily Mass will be taken from St. Paul's first letter to the Corinthians. Perhaps it would be appropriate if I interrupt this series of articles on St. Paul to make a few remarks on 1 Corinthians, one of Paul's most popular letters.