Near the town of Krynides next to the
ancient city of Philippi, there is a unique church
that honors the stay of the Apostle Paul in this region.
Apostle Paul arrived in Phillip, the most important city
in this region in the winter of 49-50 AD
during his first trip to Greece.
He visited a place where Jews gathered on Saturdays
on the banks of the Gangitis (Zygaktes) River.
We learn from St Luke that Lydia was among
the women that heard the preaching of St. Paul.
Her business was selling porphyry for the dyeing of fabric
in the city of Thyatira.
Lydia was the first Greek and first European woman
baptized by the Apostle Paul. She accepted Christianity
and was baptized as well as her household.
They later worked together to spread the faith.
The church located here marks the spot for this important event.
The outdoor setting for the site is beautiful
and the water still flows here.
A wonderful place to remember our own baptisms
and the gift of faith that flowed
from here to the rest of Europe.
for some quiet reflective time.
Paul's team continued to visit the small
"place of prayer" each Saturday as they sought new ways
to win more people into the faith.
Lydia's home was large enough to house Paul and his team.
Her gift of hospitality was a Kingdom blessing.
See Acts 16:11-16.
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