Many of the first converts to Christianity were women. Paul and his companions met a Greek woman named Lydia outside of Philippi next to a river (there is a beautiful outdoor chapel there now). She was a God-fearer - a pagan who was attracted to Judaism and open to its teachings. The Lord opened her heart; she and her household were baptized, and she extended hospitality to Paul. Often the contributions of women in the church have not been adequately appreciated and recognized, and the Holy Father has called for a greater voice for women. Let us open our own minds and hearts.

Jesus made sure that his followers would never be alone. He left them the Paraclete - comforter or advocate - to witness, guide, and teach. They would need it! He warned that by following him they would earn the world's hatred. A day would even arrive when those who killed them would think that they were doing God a favor. How true - even today, many resort to violence in the belief that they are being faithful to God. God does not ask for or accept violence or hatred in His name. Let us take care in word, thought, and speech that we do not demonstrate violence, intolerance, or hatred to anyone for any reason, especially concerning God.