Deacon of the early Church and the first martyr, stoned to death while forgiving his persecutors.
Life
Saint Stephen was a deacon of the early Church in Jerusalem. According to the Acts of the Apostles, the apostles chose seven men full of the Spirit and wisdom to care for the widows, and Stephen is the first named among them. He is described as full of grace and power, working great signs among the people.
Before the council he retold the history of Israel and boldly proclaimed Jesus as the Messiah. Enraged, his hearers dragged him outside the city and stoned him, while a young man named Saul, the future Apostle Paul, looked on. As he died, Stephen asked forgiveness for those who were killing him. The Church honors him as the first martyr and remembers him on December 26, the day after Christmas.
Spirituality
Stephen's spirituality is a forgiveness that resembles Christ to the very end. Even while being stoned he saw heaven opened and the Lord standing there, and like Jesus he commended his spirit and prayed for his enemies. A calling that began with serving at tables was completed in bearing witness to the Word and offering his life.
Reflection
On the very day after the joy of Christmas, the Church remembers the martyr Stephen. Having welcomed the Child Jesus, we too are invited to bear witness to Him. Could you offer a prayer today for someone who has hurt you?