St. Stephen

Feast Day: December 26

“Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” – St. Stephen (Acts 7:60)

St. Stephen, the first martyr of the Church, is honored for his courageous witness to Christ and his unwavering faith in the face of persecution. His feast day, celebrated on December 26, immediately follows Christmas, reminding the faithful that the joy of Christ’s birth is united with the call to faithful witness, even unto death.

The First Deacon and Martyr

Stephen was one of the first seven deacons chosen by the apostles to assist in the charitable works of the early Church, particularly in caring for widows and the poor (Acts 6). He was known for his deep faith, wisdom, and his ability to preach and perform great wonders among the people.

Stephen boldly proclaimed the Gospel, speaking about Jesus as the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets. His fearless preaching stirred opposition from some members of the Jewish authorities.

A Witness unto Death

Brought before the Sanhedrin, Stephen delivered a powerful speech recounting salvation history and accusing his accusers of resisting the Holy Spirit, just as their ancestors had done. Enraged, the crowd dragged him outside the city and stoned him.

As he was dying, Stephen imitated Christ by praying, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit,” and “Lord, do not hold this sin against them” (Acts 7:59-60). His forgiveness of his killers is one of the most powerful examples of Christian mercy in Scripture.

A Saint of Courage and Mercy

Stephen’s death marked the beginning of widespread persecution against the early Christians. Among the witnesses to his martyrdom was Saul of Tarsus, who would later become St. Paul, a powerful sign of how Stephen’s witness bore fruit even in the hearts of his enemies.

Stephen is the patron saint of deacons, altar servers, and stonemasons, as well as all those who serve the Church with humility and courage.

A Model of Faithful Witness

St. Stephen’s life reminds the faithful that to follow Christ is to bear witness to Him with love, truth, and forgiveness—even in the face of suffering and death. His example encourages all Christians to be faithful disciples, trusting in God’s mercy and grace.

St. Stephen, pray for us!