Memorial of St. Stephen

The Memorial of St. Stephen

Feast Day: December 26

Saint Stephen, one of the first ordained deacons of the early Church, holds a significant place in Christian history as the first Christian martyr. Stephen's martyrdom, as recounted in Acts 7: 54- 60, served as both a natural and supernatural sign of his profound love for the Lord, inspiring early believers in the face of persecution. 

Stephen's ministry as an archdeacon involved caring for the practical needs of the community, particularly the Greek-speaking widows. His preaching and miracles stirred opposition, leading to false accusations of blasphemy and a trial before the Sanhedrin. 

Stephen, filled with wisdom from heaven, defended the Christian faith by recounting Israel's history and explaining Jesus' fulfillment of the law. His bold words and vision of Jesus standing at the right hand of God further enraged his accusers, resulting in a violent stoning outside the city. 

The exact location of Stephen's tomb was lost for centuries until a priest named Lucian claimed a revelation in 415, leading to the discovery and relocation of his relics. Saint Stephen is often depicted with symbols such as stones, a Gospel Book, a miniature church and a martyr's palm frond. 

Saint Stephen is the patron saint of altar servers, bricklayers, casket makers and deacons. 

Celebrate his memorial by: 

• Praying for deacons, for those in formation for the diaconate and those discerning the vocation to the diaconate.
• Donating food or giving funds to care for those in need.
• Volunteering to help in your church parish.
• Visiting the Basilica of St. Stephen in New Orleans.