It is in Jerusalem where Stephen testified to Christ’s life and teachings, reflecting the deep love of God unveiled in the Incarnation. Selected by the apostles to support their ministry as a deacon, he was a selfless servant to the underprivileged. His benevolence, providing food and other assistance to those in need, aptly symbolizes the kindness of the Christmas season.

In reality, the entirety of Stephen’s existence was grounded in the enigma of Christmas — the Word incarnate, who arrived to live among us (Jn 1:14). He testified to the truth that the infant born in Bethlehem is the Redeemer of the world. And for this witness, Stephen gave his life, becoming a shining model of the sacrifice and the honor of following Christ.

“Lord, please do not count this wrongdoing against them.”

The martyrdom of St. Stephen is narrated in the Acts of the Apostles, where we observe how he stood in front of the Sanhedrin, confidently declaring the truth of the Gospel. Even in the face of death, Stephen’s heart was imbued with the peace and hope of Christ. His last utterances resonate with the forgiveness of the Savior: “Lord, do not hold this sin against them” (Acts 7:60).

St. Stephen shows us that the happiness of Christmas is not limited to the stable but permeates every aspect of our lives. St. Stephen’s existence serves as a reminder that the joy of Christmas — the arrival of our Savior — brings with it the invitation to follow Him, regardless of the price. His feast day provides a chance to reaffirm our dedication to Christ as disciples. Every one of us ought to consider, how are we invited to share the light of Christ with those in our midst? In what ways can we exhibit courage in our beliefs, even when confronted with difficulties?

St. Stephen, the first martyr, intercede for us!

Let us pray,

Grant, O Lord, we beseech you, that we may emulate what we revere, and thereby come to love even those who oppose us, for we commemorate the celestial birthday of a man who understood how to pray even for his adversaries. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who exists and rules with you in the oneness of the Holy Spirit, God, for eternity. Amen.