During the period of fierce conflict in the Church over the Arian heresy, Saint Paul served as the Bishop of Constantinople. He was chosen in 336 to succeed Alexander of Constantinople, but Emperor Constantius II sent him to Pontus the next year.

Because of his adamant opposition to Arianism, Macedonius, a heretic, took the place of Paul. Paul was once again banished by the Arians, who had the support of many in the imperial administration, after being permitted to return in 338. Paul eventually came back around 340. He was apprehended once more, and on Emperor Constantius's command, he was sent to Mesopotamia. He was exiled once more after being returned in 344, this time to Cucusus in Armenia.

Here, Arian followers starved him on purpose before strangling him. He was a close friend of St. Athanasius and is revered as a martyr for the orthodox cause.

His feast day is celebrated on June 7.

Other Saints of the Day
Saint Anthony Mary Gianelli
Saint Gottschalk
Saint Lycarion
Saint Robert of Newminster
Saint Willibald