St. Stephen was one of the seven deacons appointed by the Apostles to lead the Christian community during the early days of the church following the Ascension of Jesus Christ.

Highly eloquent and full of fortitude, he went around boldly proselytizing the Gospel, winning over numerous converts with his impassioned speeches and wisdom.

Eventually however, he was hauled before the Sanhedrin (the Jewish Council of Elders) on charges of blasphemy. His accusers were the very same people who had earlier plotted against Jesus, and who were now threatened, no doubt, by Stephen’s increasing popularity amongst the masses. Found guilty of all the charges against him, Stephen was cast out of the city and stoned to death.

Even unto death, Stephen exhibited true Christian discipleship. Bearing no animosity toward his persecutors, he prayed to God for the forgiveness of their sins with his dying breath. This plea for mercy was instrumental in the conversion of St. Paul, who was among those present that day. With his death, Stephen became the First Martyr of the Christian Church.

Centuries later, Stephen’s body was taken to the basilica of the Church of San Lorenzo in Rome, and entombed beside St. Laurence, where it remains till this day.

The Feast Day of St. Stephen, the first martyr, is celebrated on 26 December.