The Greatness of Saint Steven, the First Christian Martyr

The First Christian Martyr: Saint Steven Fr. Hugh Gillespie, SMM The First Christian Martyr: Saint Steven The Church has twinned the celebration of St. Steven, the first martyr with the birth of Jesus. On Christmas day we celebrate the savior coming into the world as He brings us salvation. The very next day we celebrate that salvation with the first martyr into Glory. It’s a remarkable combination. It is also a reminder. The Homily explains this further. The Lord comes not to bring us a superficial joy or peace. He brings a peace which upends violence. He brings a happiness that is not of this world. Steven shows us something very important. As he gives witness to Christ, we hear the words from the Gospel. The light shines over the darkness. The people of this world did not recognize the Lord. In fact, they rejected Him. This is true for His followers as Steven bear’s witness. The Spirit of Christianity is opposed by the spirit of the world. Steven is a great example of this fact. He is stoned because of the clarity of his witness. When the world could not overcome him, they eliminate him. The Homily explores this further. Listen to the Greatness of Saint Steven, the First Christian Martyr. Listen to this Meditation Media. --------------------------------------------------------- Image: Stoning of Saint Stephen: Italian Painters: Jacopo & Domenico Tintoretto The altarpiece of San Giorgio Maggiore, Venice. As St. Steven looks up, he asks for the forgiveness of those who persecute him. He utters the same words as Christ utters on The Cross: Father, into your hands I commend my spirit. As he looks up, he sees the Lord at the right hand of the Father. An amazing painting.