Lydia was a seller of purple cloth in Philippi who was baptized after hearing the apostle Paul preach. Regarded as the first Christian convert in Europe, she opened her home to the missionaries.
Life
Saint Lydia is a woman mentioned in chapter 16 of the Acts of the Apostles, a dealer in purple cloth from Thyatira in Asia Minor. Though not Jewish, she worshipped God, and she was living in Philippi in Macedonia.
When Paul and his companions spoke to the women gathered at a place of prayer by the river on the Sabbath, the Lord opened Lydia's heart and she received Paul's message. She was baptized together with her household and urged Paul and his companions to stay in her home. She is regarded as the first recorded Christian convert in Europe, and her house became a gathering place for the church of Philippi.
Spirituality
Saint Lydia's spirituality is an open heart and hospitality. She opened her heart as she listened to God's word, and once she believed, she immediately put her home and means at the service of the Gospel. As a working woman she shows that faith and livelihood can go hand in hand.
Reflection
Lydia opened her heart to the word and then opened her home. If a word at Mass moved you today, how might you carry it forward in some act of hospitality?