St. Stephen

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  • Deacon and Evangelist: Stephen was one of the first seven deacons chosen by the apostles to serve the needs of the growing Christian community, particularly the Hellenistic (Greek-speaking) widows who felt neglected in the daily distribution of food. He was known for his eloquent preaching and the miracles and signs he performed among the people.
  • Controversy and Trial: Stephen's preaching, which included a critical stance on the Jerusalem Temple and adherence to a Christ-centered belief system, angered members of various synagogues. He was accused of blasphemy and brought before the Sanhedrin, the Jewish high court.
  • Bold Defense: In his defense, Stephen delivered a powerful speech, the longest recorded in the Acts of the Apostles, reviewing the history of salvation and accusing the Jewish leaders of resisting the Holy Spirit and persecuting the prophets who foretold Jesus' coming. He concluded by stating he saw the heavens opened and the Son of Man (Jesus) standing at the right hand of God.
  • Martyrdom: This statement was seen as the ultimate offense and resulted in his immediate stoning outside the city walls. While being stoned, Stephen prayed for the Lord to receive his spirit and asked for his attackers' sins to be forgiven, mirroring Jesus' example on the cross. Saul of Tarsus, who later became the Apostle Paul, was present and approved of Stephen's execution.
  • Legacy: Stephen's martyrdom triggered a period of persecution that dispersed many Christians from Jerusalem, which, paradoxically, helped spread Christianity to other regions. His unwavering faith and forgiveness, even in the face of death, continue to inspire Christians. 
Significance of Saint Stephen
  • First Christian Martyr (Protomartyr): He was the first person to shed blood for the Christian faith, setting a powerful example for future generations of believers facing persecution.
  • Impact on Saul/Paul: Many believe Stephen's death was a pivotal moment in the life of Saul (later Paul), potentially contributing to his conversion to Christianity.
  • ** Catalyst for Christian Dispersion:** The persecution that followed his martyrdom led to the spread of Christianity beyond Jerusalem.
  • Inspiring Courage and Spirituality: His life and death continue to serve as a stimulus to piety, strengthening Christians with his courage and spirituality. 
Saint Stephen is venerated as a saint in numerous Christian churches, including the Catholic, Anglican, Oriental Orthodox, Eastern Orthodox, and Lutheran churches. His feast day is celebrated on December 26 in the Roman Catholic Church and on various dates in Eastern and Armenian traditions. He is the patron saint of deacons, stonemasons, altar servers, and people who suffer headaches.
You can pray to him if your a deacon, or for another deacon you know. When he was about to die he said "Lord receive my spirit", his last words were "Father, forgive them they do not know what they are doing.

Comments

Christusway said…
I like St. Stephen
Nov 29, 2025, 6:45:00 PM
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