St. Stephen, First Martyr

Patron of Stonemasons

St. Stephen, a disciple of Christ, chosen after the Ascension as one of the seven deacons, and “full of grace and fortitude, was working great wonders and signs among the people” (Acts 6:8). Many rose up against hi, but they were not able to withstand the wisdom that spoke.

Accused of blasphemy against Moses and against God, Stephen was brought before the Sanhedrin and condemned to be cast out of the city and stoned to death. Kneeling down before his murderers he cried out with a loud voice saying: “Lord, do not lay this sin against them” (Acts 7:60). And when he had said this he fell asleep in the Lord, 35 A.D.

PRAYER: God, grant that we may imitate the Saint we honor and learn to love our enemies. For today we celebrate the feast of St. Stephen who knew how to pray even for his persecutors. Amen.