22. The River Outside Philippi & Lydia

By the tranquil riverbanks of Philippi, we visit the sacred site where Lydia, the first recorded convert in Europe, was baptized by Paul (Acts 16:13-15). This moment marked the beginning of Christianity’s expansion into the Western world. The peaceful waters symbolize the new life offered through faith, reminding us of the transformative power of baptism. Here, we reflect on how an open heart—like Lydia’s—can become a vessel for God’s grace, leading others to the hope of the Gospel.