February 10

Tryphena (1st century)
Woman in Rome Who Labored Faithfully in Christ’s Service

Mentioned in Scripture
Tryphena is remembered from the New Testament, where Paul greets her in his Epistle to the Romans. In Romans 16:12 (KJV), Paul writes: “Salute Tryphena and Tryphosa, who labour in the Lord.” This brief mention places her among the earliest Christian women known by name.

Faithful Laborer in Christ
Paul’s commendation highlights Tryphena as one who worked diligently for the gospel. Though her specific tasks are not recorded, her labor likely included service to the poor, hospitality for believers, and assisting in the gatherings of the Roman house churches.

Early Roman Christian
Living in the capital of the empire, Tryphena’s faith placed her in the heart of a community that faced suspicion and hostility. Her steadfastness in service testifies to the presence and strength of women in the earliest Roman congregations.

Example of Female Discipleship
Tryphena’s inclusion in Paul’s letter shows the importance of women’s contributions in the apostolic church. She stands alongside other women such as Phoebe, Priscilla, and Tryphosa as a witness to the essential role women played in building up the Christian community.

Legacy of Tryphena
Though little else is known of her life, Tryphena’s name endures as a symbol of quiet, faithful service. Remembered simply as one who “labored in the Lord,” she embodies the countless early disciples whose devotion helped lay the foundation of the church.

Tryphena (1st century)
Woman in Rome Who Labored Faithfully in Christ’s Service

Mentioned in Scripture
Tryphena is remembered from the New Testament, where Paul greets her in his Epistle to the Romans. In Romans 16:12 (KJV), Paul writes: “Salute Tryphena and Tryphosa, who labour in the Lord.” This brief mention places her among the earliest Christian women known by name.

Faithful Laborer in Christ
Paul’s commendation highlights Tryphena as one who worked diligently for the gospel. Though her specific tasks are not recorded, her labor likely included service to the poor, hospitality for believers, and assisting in the gatherings of the Roman house churches.

Early Roman Christian
Living in the capital of the empire, Tryphena’s faith placed her in the heart of a community that faced suspicion and hostility. Her steadfastness in service testifies to the presence and strength of women in the earliest Roman congregations.

Example of Female Discipleship
Tryphena’s inclusion in Paul’s letter shows the importance of women’s contributions in the apostolic church. She stands alongside other women such as Phoebe, Priscilla, and Tryphosa as a witness to the essential role women played in building up the Christian community.

Legacy of Tryphena
Though little else is known of her life, Tryphena’s name endures as a symbol of quiet, faithful service. Remembered simply as one who “labored in the Lord,” she embodies the countless early disciples whose devotion helped lay the foundation of the church.

Junia (1st century)
Female Apostle Noted for Her Excellence in Christ

Called by the Lord
Junia was an early Christian disciple praised by Paul as “outstanding among the apostles.” Mentioned in Romans 16:7 alongside Andronicus, she was remembered as a woman of great faith and leadership. Her presence in the apostolic circle reflects the wide reach of Christ’s call, which raised both men and women to positions of service and witness.

Witness of Christ’s Ministry
Though not part of the Twelve, Junia bore witness through her life of discipleship and suffering. Paul described her and Andronicus as being “in Christ before me,” showing that she was among the earliest converts to the gospel. She endured imprisonment for her faith, testifying to her courage and steadfastness under persecution.

Role Among the Apostles
Junia’s recognition as an apostle shows her prominent role in the early Church. She and Andronicus were likely missionary partners, traveling to proclaim the gospel and strengthen the churches. Her being called “outstanding among the apostles” affirms that women, too, were entrusted with authority and respect in the founding generation of Christianity.

Martyrdom Account
Tradition holds that Junia, like many early believers, eventually gave her life for Christ. Some accounts say she suffered martyrdom in Greece, though details are scarce. Whether by violent death or lifelong endurance, her testimony was sealed by her faithfulness to the gospel.

Historical Traditions
Early Christian writers consistently honored Junia as a woman apostle of great renown. Church Fathers such as John Chrysostom praised her, marveling that she was called an apostle. Later centuries sometimes obscured her identity by altering her name to a masculine form, but scholarship has reaffirmed her place as a faithful woman leader of the first century.

Legacy of a Servant
Junia’s legacy is her excellence in Christ and her recognized authority among the apostles. Her life bears witness to the truth that the Spirit equips both men and women for leadership in the Church. She remains a powerful example of courage, mission, and devotion in the service of the gospel.

Nympha (1st century)
Courageously Hosted a House Church for Christian Worship

Called by the Lord
Nympha was an early Christian disciple remembered for opening her home as a place of worship. She is mentioned briefly by Paul in his letter to the Colossians, where he greets “Nympha and the church in her house.” Her hospitality made her household a center of Christian fellowship and prayer.

Witness of Christ’s Ministry
Though not an eyewitness of Jesus, Nympha bore witness through service to the body of Christ. By offering her home for the believers, she ensured that the gospel had a place to flourish. Her courage in hosting gatherings under threat of persecution testified to her faith and devotion.

Role Among the Apostles
Nympha played a vital role as a supporter of Paul’s mission and the local church. House churches like hers became the foundation of Christian community in the first century, allowing believers to gather, worship, and receive teaching. Her example reveals how women in the early Church exercised leadership through service and generosity.

Martyrdom Account
No details survive about Nympha’s death, though tradition honors her as a faithful servant of Christ. Whether or not she died a martyr, her quiet courage in sustaining the Church stands as her enduring testimony. She represents the countless early Christians who gave without reserve for the sake of the gospel.

Historical Traditions

Later traditions remembered Nympha as a woman of faith and hospitality. The very preservation of her name in Scripture reflects the honor given her by Paul and the early Church. Though little is known, her brief mention has inspired centuries of reflection on the role of women in sustaining Christian witness.

Legacy of a Servant

Nympha’s legacy is one of hospitality, courage, and service. She demonstrates that the Church’s growth was not only the work of apostles and missionaries, but also of ordinary believers who made their homes into sanctuaries for Christ. Her faithfulness shows that every act of service can become a lasting witness.

Claudia (1st century)
Early Believer Acknowledged in Paul’s Final Epistle

Called by the Lord
Claudia was a Christian woman mentioned by Paul in his final letter, written shortly before his martyrdom. In 2 Timothy 4:21, Paul sends greetings from Claudia alongside other faithful believers. Her inclusion in this list reflects her presence within the circle of early disciples who supported and encouraged the apostle in his last days.

Witness of Christ’s Ministry
Though not an eyewitness of Jesus, Claudia bore witness through her fellowship with the apostles. Her name appears in Rome’s Christian community, showing her involvement in sustaining and strengthening the faith where the pressures of persecution were strong. Her life represents the hidden yet vital role of women who nurtured and defended the Church in its earliest days.

Role Among the Apostles
Claudia’s name preserved in Paul’s letter connects her directly with the apostolic mission. Along with Linus, Pudens, and others, she formed part of a faithful network in Rome who stood by Paul in his imprisonment. Her presence demonstrated how the gospel brought together men and women from varied backgrounds into one fellowship in Christ.

Martyrdom Account
Nothing certain is known about Claudia’s death, though tradition holds she endured suffering for Christ. Some later accounts suggest she was martyred in Rome, though details are scarce. Whether or not she died violently, her quiet endurance and faithfulness in Paul’s final hours stand as her greatest testimony.

Historical Traditions
Later Christian tradition sometimes identified Claudia with other prominent Roman believers, though the evidence remains uncertain. What is clear is that her name was remembered in connection with Paul’s final days. The preservation of her name in Scripture marks her as an honored figure, recognized by the apostle himself.

Legacy of a Servant
Claudia’s legacy is her faithful companionship to the apostle Paul and her devotion to the Church in Rome. Her example shows how even brief mentions in Scripture can reflect lives of courage, faith, and service. In the darkest days of Paul’s imprisonment, she was remembered as a believer who stood firm.

Julia (1st century)
Christian Woman Noted in Paul’s List of the Faithful

Called by the Lord
Julia was an early Christian believer in Rome whose name appears in Paul’s greetings to the saints. She is mentioned in Romans 16:15 among those who were part of the fellowship of the Church. Her inclusion in this letter shows that she was a recognized and faithful disciple of Christ within the growing Christian community.

Witness of Christ’s Ministry
Though not an eyewitness of Jesus, Julia bore witness through her life of service and faith. By standing among the believers in Rome, she represented those who nurtured the Church through steadfast devotion. Her presence in Paul’s greeting reminds us that even the briefest mentions preserve the memory of lives dedicated to Christ.

Role Among the Apostles
Julia was part of the network of Paul’s co-laborers who sustained the Church in Rome. Alongside Philologus, Nereus, and Olympas, she is remembered as one who faithfully shared in the life of the Christian household. Her role illustrates how the apostolic mission was supported not only by public leaders but also by faithful members of house churches.

Martyrdom Account
No record survives of Julia’s death, though later tradition regards her among the faithful witnesses of the early Church. Living in Rome under imperial scrutiny, her endurance in the faith itself would have been a powerful testimony. Whether or not she died as a martyr, her name reflects her perseverance in Christ.

Historical Traditions
Later writers preserved Julia’s name as part of the Roman Christian community honored by Paul. Some traditions associate her with families who hosted gatherings of believers, while others simply revere her as one of the faithful saints. Though details of her life remain unknown, her name’s preservation in Scripture gives her a lasting place in Christian memory.

Legacy of a Servant
Julia’s legacy is her quiet faithfulness, which earned her recognition in the apostolic age. Though only briefly mentioned, her inclusion reflects the importance of ordinary believers in the growth of the Church. Her name stands as a reminder that no act of devotion is overlooked by God or forgotten by His people.

Persis (1st century)
Highly Regarded by Paul for Her Great Service

Called by the Lord
Persis was a Christian woman in Rome remembered with honor by the apostle Paul for her faithful service. In Romans 16:12, Paul greets her as one who “labored much in the Lord.” Her name, meaning “Persian woman,” suggests she may have come from the East, yet her devotion to Christ found its place in the heart of the Roman church.

Witness of Christ’s Ministry
Though not an eyewitness of Jesus, Persis bore witness through her tireless devotion to His body, the Church. Paul’s special commendation of her effort shows that her service went beyond ordinary participation. Her life testified that faith was expressed not only in belief but also in hard work for the good of God’s people.

Role Among the Apostles
Persis was counted among the network of Paul’s trusted co-workers in Rome. Alongside other women such as Tryphena and Tryphosa, she is mentioned for her labors in the gospel. Her recognition by name highlights the essential contributions of women to the apostolic mission, building up the early Church in both public and private roles.

Martyrdom Account
No specific record survives of Persis’s death, though later memory honored her as a faithful saint. Some traditions suggest she suffered persecution in Rome, though details are uncertain. Whether by martyrdom or a life of quiet endurance, she is remembered for her perseverance in Christ’s service.

Historical Traditions
The early Church preserved Persis’s name because of Paul’s unique commendation. Her inclusion in Romans 16, alongside a long list of fellow workers, shows how carefully the apostles acknowledged the support of their co-laborers. Later commentators, such as Chrysostom, pointed to her as an example of the dignity and value of women in the early Christian mission.

Legacy of a Servant
Persis’s legacy is her wholehearted labor in the Lord. Though little else is known about her life, Paul’s praise ensures her place in Christian memory. She represents the many unnamed workers whose dedication sustained the Church, reminding believers that God values faithfulness in every act of service.

Thecla of Iconium (1st century)
Courageous Female Convert Who Preached Christ’s Gospel

Called by the Lord
Thecla was a young woman of Iconium whose life was transformed by hearing Paul’s preaching of Christ. According to the Acts of Paul and Thecla, she renounced her former life, broke her engagement, and chose to follow the way of the gospel. Her decision showed extraordinary courage, as she risked her status, security, and even her life for Christ.

Witness of Christ’s Ministry
Thecla bore witness through bold confession, enduring trials and persecution for her faith. She was condemned to death multiple times, including being cast into fire and thrown to wild beasts, yet according to tradition she was miraculously preserved. Her witness became a testimony to the power of Christ to deliver and to sustain His servants in danger.

Role Among the Apostles
Though not counted among the Twelve, Thecla became a companion of Paul and a preacher of the gospel. She traveled widely proclaiming Christ and was recognized by many early Christians as a model disciple. Her courage in teaching, baptizing, and proclaiming the gospel made her one of the most prominent women in the early Church’s memory.

Martyrdom Account
Tradition diverges on Thecla’s end, with some accounts saying she lived to old age, while others claim she was martyred. In many versions, she settled near Seleucia, teaching and ministering until her death. Regardless of the manner of her passing, her life was marked by perseverance and fearless devotion to Christ.

Historical Traditions
Thecla’s story spread widely in the early Church, making her one of the most celebrated female martyrs and confessors. The Acts of Paul and Thecla were cherished by believers, despite later questions about their historical detail. Church Fathers such as Tertullian and Jerome mention her, reflecting her influence on the devotional life of early Christians, especially among women.

Legacy of a Servant
Thecla’s legacy is her courage, chastity, and devotion to preaching Christ’s gospel. She became a symbol of female discipleship, showing that women, too, could take bold and public roles in proclaiming the good news. Her story inspired countless believers across generations to embrace the faith with fearless commitment.

Domitilla the Younger (c. 90–100)
Roman Woman Who Embraced Christianity Amid Persecution

Called by the Lord
Domitilla the Younger was a noblewoman of the Flavian dynasty who turned to Christ in the closing years of the 1st century. A granddaughter of Emperor Vespasian and niece of Emperor Domitian, she belonged to one of the most powerful families in Rome. Her conversion to Christianity placed her in direct conflict with imperial expectations, marking her faith as both courageous and costly.

Witness of Christ’s Ministry
Though born into privilege, Domitilla bore witness by aligning herself with a persecuted faith. Ancient sources suggest she was accused of “atheism” (the refusal to worship Roman gods) and exiled. Her choice to identify with Christ and the Church showed that the gospel could penetrate even Rome’s elite households, turning hearts from worldly honor to eternal hope.

Role Among the Apostles
Domitilla’s role was that of a patron and supporter of Christians at a dangerous time. Like Priscilla and other prominent women, she used her position and resources to strengthen the community of believers. Her example demonstrated that the apostolic mission was carried forward not only by missionaries but also by converts who defended the faith through endurance.

Martyrdom Account
Tradition varies about Domitilla’s end, with some accounts saying she was martyred, while others describe her exile. Eusebius mentions that she was banished to the island of Pontia for her confession of Christ. Whether or not she suffered execution, her name became linked with the witness of those who endured Rome’s hostility for the sake of the gospel.

Historical Traditions
Writers such as Suetonius, Cassius Dio, and Eusebius preserve glimpses of Domitilla’s story. Some later traditions distinguish between Flavia Domitilla the Younger (the emperor’s niece) and Flavia Domitilla the Elder (her relative), but both are remembered in connection with Christianity. The catacombs of Domitilla in Rome were associated with her family, reinforcing her place in Christian memory.

Legacy of a Servant
Domitilla’s legacy is her witness as a woman of high status who chose loyalty to Christ over worldly power. Her faith under persecution encouraged Christians in Rome and beyond, showing that the gospel demanded—and inspired—courage at every level of society. Her story remains a reminder that no rank or privilege outweighs the call of Christ.

Pomponia Graecina (1st century)
Noblewoman Secretly Practicing Christianity Under Rome’s Eye

Called by the Lord
Pomponia Graecina was a Roman noblewoman of high rank who quietly embraced the Christian faith. Married to Aulus Plautius, the general who led the Roman conquest of Britain, she lived at the heart of imperial society. Despite her wealth and influence, she turned her heart to Christ, practicing the faith in secrecy during a time of suspicion and persecution.

Witness of Christ’s Ministry
Though not an eyewitness of Jesus, Pomponia bore witness through her quiet piety and endurance. Ancient accounts describe her as living for decades “in unbroken sadness,” interpreted by later Christians as a sign of her mourning for Christ and His people. Her life demonstrated how devotion to the gospel could flourish even under Rome’s close scrutiny.

Role Among the Apostles
Pomponia’s role was as a patroness and protector of the Christian community within Rome. Her position gave her the ability to shelter believers and perhaps provide resources for the growing church. Like other women of means in the early Church, she used her household and influence to strengthen the fellowship of disciples, even while keeping her faith concealed from hostile authorities.

Martyrdom Account
Unlike many early Christians, Pomponia was not executed but tried by her own family on charges of “foreign superstition.” Tacitus records that in A.D. 57 she was handed over to her husband’s judgment, who declared her innocent. She lived on for many years, enduring in faith though never openly able to confess Christ before the world.

Historical Traditions
Tacitus provides the main historical record of Pomponia’s life, with later Christian writers connecting her to the faith. The link between her melancholy devotion and Christianity was drawn by Jerome and others, who saw her as an early witness of the gospel in Rome. While not as widely remembered as martyrs, her steadfastness left a quiet mark on Christian tradition.

Legacy of a Servant
Pomponia’s legacy is her hidden discipleship and courage in living for Christ under Rome’s gaze. She stands as a reminder that not all witnesses are public martyrs; some bore their testimony through endurance, restraint, and loyalty in silence. Her story shows that the faith took root not only in humble homes but also in the very households of Rome’s elite.

Flavia Domitilla (d. c. 95–100)
Christian Noblewoman and Roman Martyr

Called by the Lord
Flavia Domitilla was a member of the powerful Flavian dynasty who embraced Christianity despite her noble birth. She was either the niece or granddaughter of Emperor Vespasian, making her part of Rome’s imperial family. Her conversion placed her in direct opposition to the demands of Roman religion, where emperor worship and loyalty to the gods were expected of the elite.

Witness of Christ’s Ministry
Though not an eyewitness of Jesus, Domitilla bore witness by confessing His name at the risk of her life. Ancient accounts describe her as accused of “atheism,” meaning her refusal to worship Rome’s gods. By standing with the persecuted Church, she showed that faith could penetrate even the highest circles of Roman society.

Role Among the Apostles
Domitilla’s role was that of patroness and protector, supporting Christians who faced trials under Domitian’s reign. Her household connections likely gave shelter to believers, and her influence strengthened the Church in its earliest Roman struggles. Like Lydia, Priscilla, and other women in Scripture, she used her position to further the mission of the gospel.

Martyrdom Account
Tradition holds that Flavia Domitilla was martyred under Emperor Domitian around the year 95. Some sources describe her exile to the island of Pontia, where she suffered greatly before her death. Others claim she was executed after refusing to renounce Christ. Her name was preserved in the martyrologies as a noblewoman who died for her confession of faith.

Historical Traditions
Ancient historians and Christian writers mention Domitilla, though sometimes distinguishing between the Elder and Younger of that name. Cassius Dio, Suetonius, and Eusebius all refer to members of the Flavian household who were punished for “Jewish customs,” often understood as Christianity. The catacombs of Domitilla in Rome were later connected with her family, cementing her place in Christian memory.

Legacy of a Martyr
Flavia Domitilla’s legacy is her witness as a noblewoman who chose Christ over Caesar. Her story demonstrates that the gospel reached every level of Roman society, even into the emperor’s household. Her courage in exile or death became a symbol of the cost of discipleship and the triumph of faith over worldly power.

Evodius of Antioch (d. c. 69)
First Bishop of Antioch Before Ignatius

Called by the Lord
Evodius was one of the earliest converts in Antioch, remembered as the city’s first bishop. According to tradition, he was appointed to this role by the apostle Peter himself. As one of the earliest leaders of a Gentile-majority church, his ministry stood at the crossroads of Jewish and Gentile Christianity.

Witness of Christ’s Ministry
Though not an eyewitness of Jesus, Evodius bore witness by shepherding one of the most influential early churches. Antioch was the city where believers were first called “Christians” (Acts 11:26), and Evodius guided the community through its formative years. His leadership helped root the gospel in a city that soon became a major center of mission.

Role Among the Apostles
Evodius served as successor to the apostles in Antioch, continuing their teaching and pastoral work. His position connected him directly to Peter and Paul, both of whom ministered in Antioch. His faithfulness ensured that the apostolic message remained intact, preparing the way for his better-known successor, Ignatius of Antioch.

Martyrdom Account
Tradition holds that Evodius was martyred under Emperor Nero around A.D. 69. Some accounts describe him as executed by beheading for his confession of Christ. His death sealed his ministry with the testimony of blood, uniting him with the many other martyrs of the apostolic age.

Historical Traditions
The early Church preserved Evodius’s name as part of Antioch’s episcopal succession. Eusebius and later chroniclers record that he was followed by Ignatius, who became one of the most famous early bishops. His position highlights the continuity of leadership from the apostles to the early Church Fathers.

Legacy of a Shepherd
Evodius’s legacy is his role in establishing Antioch as one of Christianity’s great centers. Though overshadowed by Ignatius, his faithfulness at the beginning laid the foundation for the church that would become a beacon of orthodoxy and mission. His example shows the importance of continuity in leadership during the Church’s earliest trials.

Aristobulus (1st century)
Early House-Church Leader in Rome (Household Honored by Paul)

Called by the Lord
Aristobulus was a Roman Christian whose household was specially greeted by Paul in his epistle to the Romans. In Romans 16:10, Paul instructs the believers to “greet those of Aristobulus’s household,” indicating that his home was a known center of Christian fellowship in the early Church. Though Paul doesn’t address Aristobulus himself—possibly because he was absent, deceased, or not yet a believer—the faith of his household members is honored.

Witness of Christ’s Ministry
Aristobulus’s faithful testimony is reflected through the Christian witness of those within his household. Their recognition by Paul implies that his home served as a gathering place for believers—one of the early house churches known to exist in Rome . Even if Aristobulus wasn't a Christian at the time, the transformation within his household reflects the reach of the gospel into influential homes.

Role Among the Apostles
Tradition identifies Aristobulus as one of the Seventy Disciples and credits him with missionary leadership, especially in Britain. Sources like Hippolytus of Rome and Dorotheus of Gaza list him among those sent by Christ and note his later service as bishop in Britain—an extraordinary expansion of the gospel beyond the Mediterranean.

Martyrdom Account
Church traditions hold that Aristobulus preached in Britain, faced persecution, and earned the crown of martyrdom there. Though historical details are scarce and primarily drawn from hagiographical sources, his story reflects the zeal of early missionaries whose witness extended to distant lands.

Historical Traditions
Later Christian memory upheld Aristobulus’s legacy as a foundational figure in early British Christianity. Despite the limited historical evidence, his name appears in lists of apostolic disciples. These traditions offer a glimpse into how the Church honored those who bore the faith into new regions.

Legacy of a Servant
Aristobulus’s legacy is rooted in the power of transformed households and pioneering mission. His home in Rome exemplifies how the faith took root in domestic settings. His remembered role in Britain's Christian origins highlights the lasting impact of faith borne quietly at home and carried courageously to the ends of the earth.

Zenas the Lawyer (1st century)
Mentioned by Paul in Titus 3:13

Called by the Lord
Zenas was an early Christian disciple identified in Paul’s letter to Titus as “the lawyer.” His Greek name, Ζηνᾶς, suggests a Gentile background, and his profession indicates training either in Jewish law or Roman civil law. Whatever his expertise, he placed his skills at the service of the gospel, becoming part of Paul’s missionary circle.

Witness of Christ’s Ministry
Though not an eyewitness of Jesus, Zenas bore witness by supporting Paul’s mission through practical help. Paul commended him alongside Apollos, urging Titus to provide them with supplies for their journey. His willingness to travel for the sake of the gospel reflects the sacrifice and devotion of the many lesser-known laborers in the early Church.

Role Among the Apostles
Zenas’s role highlights the variety of gifts used in the apostolic mission. His legal knowledge may have assisted Paul’s companions in navigating disputes, contracts, or even persecutions. That Paul mentions him with respect shows he was more than a casual associate—he was trusted with the demanding work of aiding the Church’s ministry.

Martyrdom Account
Little is known of Zenas’s later life, though some traditions hold he became a bishop in Diospolis (modern Lydda). Accounts vary on whether he died in peace or as a martyr. Either way, his name endured in the Church’s memory as one who gave his professional talents to Christ.

Historical Traditions
The early Church honored Zenas among the Seventy disciples, according to later lists preserved by Hippolytus and Dorotheus. While this tradition cannot be confirmed historically, it reflects the high regard in which he was held. His link to Apollos in Paul’s letter further suggests his importance as a trusted co-worker in the apostolic age.

Legacy of a Servant
Zenas’s legacy is his example of using worldly skill for eternal purposes. Though only mentioned once in Scripture, he represents the countless early Christians who brought their talents into service of the gospel. His faithfulness shows that Christ’s Church was built not only by apostles and preachers but also by practical servants who bore the weight of mission.

Carpus (1st century)
Mentioned by Paul in 2 Timothy 4:13

Called by the Lord
Carpus was a Christian believer remembered for his hospitality and service to Paul. Paul mentions him briefly in his final epistle, written during his imprisonment in Rome, requesting that Timothy bring a cloak and books left at Carpus’s house in Troas. This simple reference preserves the memory of an ordinary disciple whose home became a place of refuge for the apostle.

Witness of Christ’s Ministry
Though not an eyewitness of Jesus, Carpus bore witness by supporting Paul’s ministry with faith and generosity. His house in Troas likely served as a meeting place for Christians, part of the early network of house churches that sustained the apostolic mission. His quiet role testified to the truth that the gospel advanced through both great preachers and faithful hosts.

Role Among the Apostles
Carpus’s service placed him within the trusted circle of Paul’s companions. Entrusted with Paul’s books and cloak, he showed himself reliable in handling both practical and spiritual matters. The apostle’s mention of him in Scripture testifies to the importance of small acts of service in the life of the early Church.

Martyrdom Account
Tradition later held that Carpus became a bishop in Beroea (in Macedonia) and suffered martyrdom for Christ. According to these accounts, he was executed during persecution, sealing his faith with his blood. While details vary, the tradition honors him as one of the faithful servants who endured to the end.

Historical Traditions
Later Christian memory elevated Carpus as one of the Seventy disciples appointed by Christ. Writers such as Hippolytus and pseudo-Dorotheus list him among those early followers, though this is more traditional than historically verifiable. Regardless, his name endured in the Church’s remembrance, linking him to both Paul and the wider mission of the apostles.

Legacy of a Servant
Carpus’s legacy is his quiet yet lasting faithfulness in serving Paul and Christ’s Church. Though mentioned only once in Scripture, his example shows that no act of service is too small to matter. His willingness to shelter Paul and preserve his belongings became a testimony to the enduring strength of Christian hospitality.

Onesimus (1st century)
Runaway Former Slave Turned Christian Convert

Called by the Lord
Onesimus was a runaway slave who found freedom in Christ through the ministry of Paul. His name, meaning “useful” or “profitable,” reflected the transformation that occurred in his life. Once considered worthless by human standards, he became a faithful brother in the Lord, embodying the power of the gospel to redeem and restore.

Witness of Christ’s Ministry
Though not an eyewitness of Jesus, Onesimus bore witness by living out the gospel of reconciliation. In prison, Paul led him to Christ and sent him back to his master Philemon with a letter pleading for forgiveness and acceptance. Onesimus’s story became a living testimony of how the gospel breaks down barriers of status and restores fellowship.

Role Among the Apostles
Onesimus became one of Paul’s trusted helpers and a messenger of the gospel. In Colossians 4:9, Paul refers to him as “our faithful and beloved brother,” showing the depth of his transformation and trustworthiness. He carried Paul’s letters to the churches, serving as a living witness that God’s grace can raise the lowly to positions of honor in the Church.

Martyrdom Account
Tradition holds that Onesimus was later ordained bishop of Ephesus and eventually martyred for his faith. According to some accounts, he was arrested during persecution, tortured, and executed by stoning or beheading. His endurance until death confirmed the authenticity of his conversion and his devotion to Christ.

Historical Traditions
The early Church preserved Onesimus’s name with honor, remembering him as both servant and leader. Ignatius of Antioch mentioned him as bishop of Ephesus, praising his faith and pastoral care. His story of transformation was used to illustrate the gospel’s power to redeem not only individuals but also social relationships distorted by sin.

Legacy of a Servant
Onesimus’s legacy is one of redemption, reconciliation, and faithful service. Once a runaway slave, he became a shepherd of God’s people, showing that in Christ there is neither slave nor free. His life continues to remind the Church that the gospel is the power of God to transform lives and communities.

Philemon (1st century)
Hosted Church, Recipient of Paul’s Letter

Called by the Lord
Philemon was a Christian believer from Colossae, remembered as the recipient of Paul’s shortest epistle. A man of some wealth and social standing, he used his household to support the early Church. His home became a place of worship and fellowship, making him one of the earliest Christian hosts of a house church.

Witness of Christ’s Ministry
Though not an eyewitness of Jesus, Philemon bore witness by opening his home and resources for the gospel. Paul addressed him with affection, calling him a “dearly beloved” fellow worker. His faith and hospitality gave the Colossian believers a stable center for worship, discipleship, and community.

Role Among the Apostles
Philemon played a vital role in Paul’s ministry by supporting the mission and caring for fellow believers. His relationship with Paul was strengthened through Onesimus, his runaway slave who became a Christian under Paul’s guidance. Paul’s letter to Philemon remains a powerful example of Christian reconciliation, urging him to receive Onesimus “no longer as a servant, but a beloved brother.”

Martyrdom Account
Tradition holds that Philemon, along with his wife Apphia and son Archippus, later suffered martyrdom for the faith. Local accounts suggest they were attacked during a pagan festival and killed for refusing to deny Christ. His martyrdom shows that his hospitality and faith endured even unto death.

Historical Traditions
Philemon is remembered as one of the leaders of the Colossian church, honored for his service and sacrifice. Some traditions hold that he became a bishop in Colossae. His association with Paul, Timothy, and Onesimus made him part of a larger network of apostolic co-workers who ensured the gospel spread through Asia Minor.

Legacy of a Servant
Philemon’s legacy is one of hospitality, reconciliation, and steadfast faith. His life shows how ordinary believers with homes, resources, and families became pillars of the Church. Through Paul’s letter, his story continues to teach the transforming power of forgiveness and the unity of believers in Christ.

Epaphroditus (1st century)
Delivered Paul’s Letter to the Philippians

Called by the Lord
Epaphroditus was a Christian disciple from Philippi who became a trusted messenger and helper of Paul. His name, meaning “lovely” or “charming,” reflected the esteem in which he was held by the Philippian church. Chosen to carry their gifts to Paul during his imprisonment, he became a vital link between the apostle and the believers in Macedonia.

Witness of Christ’s Ministry
Though not an eyewitness of Jesus, Epaphroditus bore witness through service, sacrifice, and suffering. Paul described him as a “brother, fellow worker, and fellow soldier,” showing the depth of his partnership in the gospel. He nearly died from illness while ministering to Paul, yet his endurance displayed the power of Christ at work in his weakness.

Role Among the Apostles
Epaphroditus’s mission was to deliver Paul’s letter to the Philippians, ensuring the apostle’s words reached the church. His journey carried not only financial support but also encouragement, strengthening the bond between Paul and his beloved flock. By faithfully delivering the letter, he preserved one of the most treasured writings of the New Testament.

Martyrdom Account
Tradition about Epaphroditus’s later life is uncertain, though some accounts suggest he became a bishop and suffered martyrdom. Whether he died violently or peacefully, his sacrificial service left a legacy of loyalty to Paul and to Christ’s mission.

Historical Traditions
The early Church remembered Epaphroditus as an example of humility and dedication. Later writers associate him with episcopal service in Philippi or elsewhere, preserving his memory as a leader shaped by his service to Paul. His name stands among the honored circle of Paul’s co-laborers who ensured the gospel spread through their faithfulness.

Legacy of a Servant
Epaphroditus’s legacy is his faithful service as messenger, companion, and preserver of Paul’s words. His willingness to risk his life for the work of Christ makes him a model of quiet heroism in the Church. He reminds believers that small acts of service—like delivering a letter—can bear eternal fruit for generations.

Silas (Silvanus) (1st century)
Faithful Companion of Paul and Fellow Preacher of the Gospel

Called by the Lord
Silas, also known as Silvanus, was a leading member of the Jerusalem church who became one of Paul’s closest companions. First introduced in Acts 15, he was chosen by the apostles to accompany Paul on his second missionary journey after Barnabas departed. His willingness to endure hardship for the gospel marked him as a true servant of Christ.

Witness of Christ’s Ministry
Silas bore witness through missionary journeys that spread the gospel across Asia Minor and into Europe. He traveled with Paul through Philippi, Thessalonica, and Corinth, preaching Christ and strengthening new believers. Imprisoned with Paul in Philippi, he sang hymns at midnight, and God opened the prison doors—his faith becoming a visible testimony of Christ’s power.

Role Among the Apostles
Silas held an important place among the apostles and early missionaries. He is credited as co-author or secretary for Paul in letters to the Thessalonians and is also named in 2 Corinthians. Later, he worked closely with Peter, who referred to him affectionately in 1 Peter 5:12 as a “faithful brother.” His ministry shows the deep trust placed in him by multiple apostolic leaders.

Martyrdom Account
Tradition about Silas’s later life is uncertain, but some accounts say he became bishop of Corinth and died a martyr. Whether by violent death or by lifelong endurance, he is remembered as one who remained faithful until the end. His story reflects the risks and sacrifices of the earliest Christian missionaries.

Historical Traditions
The Church Fathers consistently honored Silas as both Paul’s companion and Peter’s helper. His presence in apostolic journeys and letters connected him to the great missionary expansion of the first century. Later traditions in both East and West regarded him as one of the Seventy disciples appointed by Christ, further elevating his role in early Christian history.

Legacy of a Servant
Silas’s legacy is his steadfast companionship and witness alongside the apostles. He represents the many missionary partners whose endurance, faith, and courage spread the gospel far beyond Jerusalem. His life shows that God calls not only leaders but also faithful co-workers who ensure the Church’s mission succeeds.

Luke the Evangelist (1st century)
Author of the Gospel of Luke and the Acts of the Apostles

Called by the Lord
Luke was a Gentile convert and physician who became a devoted companion of Paul. He is identified in Paul’s letters as “the beloved physician” (Colossians 4:14) and was one of the few who remained with Paul during his final imprisonment. Though not one of the Twelve, Luke’s calling as an evangelist and historian gave him a unique role in preserving the story of Jesus and the early Church.

Witness of Christ’s Ministry
Though not an eyewitness of Jesus, Luke bore witness by carefully gathering accounts of His life and teaching. His Gospel opens with a declaration of his method: to write an orderly account based on the testimony of those “who from the beginning were eyewitnesses.” He presented Christ as the Savior of all people—Jews and Gentiles alike—emphasizing compassion, healing, and the role of women and the marginalized.

Role Among the Apostles
Luke accompanied Paul on missionary journeys and provided firsthand accounts in Acts of the Apostles. The “we” passages in Acts show where Luke was present, sharing in the dangers and triumphs of the mission. His close association with Paul gave him access to the apostle’s teaching and struggles, which he faithfully recorded for the Church’s benefit.

Martyrdom Account
Tradition holds that Luke lived to an old age and died as a martyr for the faith. Some accounts say he was hanged in Greece for preaching Christ, while others suggest he died peacefully at age 84. Either way, his life ended as it was lived—in service to the gospel.

Historical Traditions
Early Christian writers such as Irenaeus, Eusebius, and Jerome confirm Luke as the author of both the Gospel and Acts. He is remembered as a physician, historian, and painter—later traditions even credit him with the first icons of Mary. His writings, making up over one-quarter of the New Testament, testify to his pivotal role in shaping Christian memory.

Legacy of an Evangelist
Luke’s legacy is his inspired testimony, offering the Church both a Gospel and its earliest history. His works emphasize the universality of salvation, the activity of the Holy Spirit, and the mission to the nations. Through his careful research and Spirit-led writing, he gave believers a record of Jesus’ compassion and the unstoppable spread of the gospel.