Lydia
Lydia, an entrepreneur, was a seller of purple. Purple cloth in ancient days was a symbol of wealth. A confident, successful business woman who sold luxury goods to the elite and the powerful, Lydia knew there was more to life. It is here where Lydia’s heart was changed by God to hear the call of Jesus. Lydia was the Apostle Paul’s first European convert and provided support to him. When the heart of a working woman is opened to the gospel, she can impact the world!
In the spirit of Lydia and her extraordinary life and influence, each year Scenic City Women’s Network honors an extraordinary Christian working woman – a modern day Lydia. She is chosen as someone who has exhibited a life-time of mature Christian faith, enthusiasm for life, positively impacting lives and making a difference in the world around her, and being an encourager to other Christian working women. The SCWN Lydia honoree is a woman that demonstrates leadership, dedication, and faithfulness.
Modern Day Lydias
Listen to Jane’s Interview on WMBW Moody Radio Chattanooga!
2024 Lydia Award Honoree
Jane Henegar
A Texas native, Jane has lived in Chattanooga, TN for more than 56 years. During her 30-year career as a Bible teacher at Girls Preparatory School, she was a powerful influence in hundreds of young lives. As one former student said, “She always had great projects for us that were challenging and insightful.” A gifted teacher, Jane taught her students how to live authentic lives, inspiring them to be curious while staying true to themselves.
“Praying Life”, a book of prayers Jane prayed publicly and privately over the years, was compiled by Sara Gahan and illustrated by GPS students. Published in 2012, it reflects her deep Christian faith.
Jane was the food editor of the Chattanooga Times as well as a family columnist for many years, and still edits the Fare Exchange, a weekly feature in the Chattanooga Times Free Press. She and her husband, Henry, have three children, eight grandchildren, ages three to 29, and one newborn great-grandchild.