Saint Stephen

Stephen was one of the first deacons — a helper chosen by the apostles to take care of the poor in the early Church. He was full of faith and the Holy Spirit, and he did great miracles. But some men argued with him about Jesus and told lies about him. They dragged Stephen to the religious court. Instead of being afraid, Stephen preached bravely about Jesus. The men were so angry they dragged him outside the city and threw stones at him until he died. While they stoned him, Stephen prayed, 'Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.' Then he fell to his knees and cried out, 'Lord, do not hold this sin against them!' He forgave them — just like Jesus on the Cross. Stephen was the first martyr — the first Christian to die for Jesus. One of the men watching was named Saul — who would later become Saint Paul. We celebrate Stephen the day after Christmas, December 26.