Saint Stephen is recognized as the first Christian martyr, a deacon in the early Church who was stoned to death around AD 34-35 for proclaiming his faith in Jesus Christ, as detailed in the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 6-7). Known as the "protomartyr," he was executed after delivering a powerful speech to the Sanhedrin, accusing them of rejecting God’s messengers, which incited their fury. As he died, Stephen saw a vision of heaven and prayed for forgiveness for his killers, setting an enduring example of faith and mercy.
Saint Stephen is recognized as the first Christian martyr. A deacon in the early Church, he was stoned to death around AD 34-35 for boldly proclaiming his faith in Jesus Christ, as recorded in the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 6-7).
Stephen was one of the seven deacons appointed to serve the growing Christian community in Jerusalem, tasked with distributing food and aid to widows, allowing the apostles to focus on preaching (Acts 6:1-6).
Stephen was accused of blasphemy by Jewish leaders for his teachings about Jesus as the Messiah. His powerful speech before the Sanhedrin, condemning their rejection of God’s prophets, enraged them, leading to his execution (Acts 7:54-60).
As he was stoned, Stephen saw a vision of heaven with Jesus standing at God’s right hand. He prayed for forgiveness for his killers, saying, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them,” before dying (Acts 7:55-60).
His martyrdom sparked widespread persecution, scattering Christians from Jerusalem. This dispersion helped spread the Gospel, with figures like Saul (later Paul) witnessing his death, which may have influenced his later conversion (Acts 8:1-3).
“Protomartyr” means “first martyr” in Greek. Stephen earned this title as the earliest recorded Christian to die for his faith, setting an example of courage and forgiveness for future martyrs.
His feast day is celebrated on December 26 in the Western Church, right after Christmas, highlighting his close connection to Christ. He is the patron saint of deacons, stonemasons, and those suffering from headaches.
Stephen’s steadfast faith, eloquence, and forgiveness under persecution inspire Christians to stand firm in their beliefs and show mercy, even to enemies, reflecting Christ’s love.
His relics were reportedly discovered in 415 AD near Jerusalem, leading to the construction of churches in his honor, such as the Basilica of San Lorenzo fuori le Mura in Rome, where some relics are kept.
Stephen’s legacy inspired medieval Christians, who venerated martyrs as heroes of faith. His story reinforced the Church’s emphasis on sacrifice and sanctity, shaping the spiritual culture of the era.
The Holy Innocents are considered martyrs because they passively died because of Christ, even unknowingly--but Stephen is considered the 1st Martyr because he was a conscious witness to the faith.