Lydia of Thyatira

Biblical Entrepreneur & First European Convert

Dealer in Royal Purple • Acts 16:14

About Me

My Name is Lydia, and I was born in Thyatira, a Roman province in Asia. I am a successful merchant renowned for trading in luxurious purple fabrics, the prized dye of royalty and the elite. I am the author of True Worshipper of God, Leadership in Women, and The Business Ideas in You. I was privildged to become the first European convert to Christianity, a turning point that deeply shaped my life and purpose.

"As a faith leader, I was honored to serve in several leadership capacities and to open my home as a sanctuary for believers--a place of fellowship, prayer, and encouragement."

✨ Entrepreneur 🏛️ Hospitality 👑 Faith Leader

50 AD

Conversion

Riverside Baptism

Philippi

Ministry Base

Macedonia

Purple

Royal Cloth

Luxury Trade

The Lord opened her heart to respond to Paul's message.

— Acts 16:14 —

Connect With Me

My Biblical Journey

Browse through moments from my life in Macedonia

Riverside baptism scene in ancient Philippi

Riverside Conversion

The sacred moment by the river in Philippi where the Lord opened my heart to Paul's message, marking the beginning of Christianity in Europe.

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My Complete Story

🏛️ Life in Thyatira

I was born in Thyatira, a city famous for purple fabrics. My childhood was filled with colour — helping my parents dye cloth and delighting in every smile my service brought. When I came of age, I began trading the purple goods myself. Business thrived, yet a quiet longing stirred within me — a gentle nudge I now recognize as God leading me beyond the familiar to Philippi, Macedonia.

💫 The Divine Invitation

One day near the city gate, I met a woman praying by the river. Her name was Lucia, and she spoke passionately about her one true God, Yahweh. Intrigued, I joined her and other women for worship. Week after week, I learned to pray and live by faith. Still, something felt incomplete.

🌊 The Transformation

Then, on an ordinary Sabbath morning, Paul, Silas, and Timothy joined our gathering. When Paul spoke of Jesus — the Son of God who saves and restores — my heart opened. I believed, was baptized, and so was my household. Joy overflowed as we celebrated new life in Christ.

💒 Ministry and Mission

Eager to learn more, I invited the apostles to stay in my home. My house soon became a safe haven for teaching and fellowship — the first church in Macedonia. We served God through hospitality, generosity, and missionary support.

🤝 The Letter That Changed Everything

Years later, we received Paul’s letter from prison, filled with gratitude and encouragement. As I listened, I realized that even the smallest act of service can advance God’s kingdom.

Biblical Timeline

Conversion at Philippi

First European convert to Christianity

50+

House Church Established

Home becomes center of Christian worship

60+

Continued Ministry

Supporting missionaries and church growth

Lydia of Thyatira