Why is Saint Stephen the protomartyr?

Saint Stephen was the first disciple to bear witness to Christ through martyrdom, as recounted in the Acts of the Apostles.

Saint Stephen

Feast day: December 26

First Christian martyr, deacon filled with faith and the Holy Spirit.

Stephen was one of seven deacons chosen by the Apostles to serve at tables and care for the poor in Jerusalem.

Full of grace and power, he worked great wonders and signs among the people, witnessing to Christ's resurrection.

Accused of blasphemy, he was brought before the Sanhedrin, where he proclaimed the truth about Jesus with prophetic boldness.

Seeing God's glory and Jesus at the Father's right hand, he commended his spirit, asking forgiveness for his persecutors.

He was stoned around the year 34, becoming the first martyr of the nascent Church.

His liturgical feast is December 26, the day after Christmas, recalling that Christ's light was born also on the cross.

To the protomartyr who imitated Christ unto death, we ask courage in faith and intercession with God.