St. Stephen
Deacon and First Martyr
Feast Day: December 26
Biography
St. Stephen (d. c. 35) is known to us from the Acts of the Apostles, chapters 6 and 7. In the early Church of Jerusalem, the Greek-speaking believers complained that their widows were being neglected in the daily distribution of food. The Apostles asked the community to choose seven men of good reputation, filled with the Spirit and wisdom, to take up this service. Stephen, first named among them, is described as 'a man filled with faith and the Holy Spirit.' The Church has long regarded these seven as the first deacons. Stephen spoke with such wisdom that his opponents could not answer him. They brought false witnesses who accused him of speaking against the Temple and the Law of Moses, and they led him before the Sanhedrin. In a long speech, Stephen retold the history of God's people from Abraham to Moses and Solomon and rebuked his hearers for resisting the Holy Spirit. Gazing into heaven, he said that he saw the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God. His hearers drove him out of the city and stoned him. As he died, he prayed, 'Lord Jesus, receive my spirit,' and, 'Lord, do not hold this sin against them.' A young man named Saul, the future St. Paul, stood by in approval. The Church honors Stephen on the day after Christmas.
Patronages
Symbols
Prayer
St. Stephen, first martyr and faithful deacon, you served the poor, proclaimed Christ boldly, and forgave those who took your life. Pray for deacons and for all who serve the needy. When I am wronged, help me to pray for those who hurt me, and to keep my eyes fixed on Jesus, who stands ready to receive me. Amen.
Asking for Intercession
Catholics ask saints to pray with us and for us, as we ask friends on earth. St. Stephen, who lives in God's presence, intercedes before His throne. Speak from your heart: “St. Stephen, please pray for me…” You may also pray the prayer above or include this intention in your Rosary.