Saint of the Day

01 · Read · A life to discover

St. Stephen

Stephen appears in the Acts of the Apostles among seven men chosen to help meet the needs of the early Christian community. Traditionally counted among the first deacons, he is described as a powerful witness whose preaching brought him into conflict with opponents. Acts records his defense before the council and his death by stoning.

His defense retells Israel’s story as the setting for the coming of Jesus. Acts presents his witness as both service and proclamation: he helps the community and publicly explains its faith. The lengthy speech leads to the vision of the risen Christ that intensifies his opponents’ anger.

Christian artists often identify him through stones or the palm associated with martyrdom. His final prayer deliberately recalls Jesus’ own forgiveness of his executioners. The narrative asks readers to consider how a disciple bears hostility without answering it with hatred, even when faithfulness becomes costly.

The account emphasizes his vision of Christ and his prayer for those killing him. Saul, later known as Paul, is named among those approving the execution. Stephen is remembered as the first Christian martyr, and his feast immediately after Christmas connects the birth of Christ with the costly witness of discipleship.

This saint is included on this recurring date in the U.S. Roman Rite calendar published by the USCCB. This reading guide gives U.S. calendar saints priority; the Mass celebrated on a particular year’s date can differ because of Sundays, seasons or higher-ranking celebrations.