St stephen protomartyr biography definition

St. Stephen, Protomartyr: The First Martyr&#;s Courage and Faith

Story of St. Stephen:

St. Stephen, the first Christian martyr, was one of the seven deacons chosen by the apostles in the early Church to help with the distribution of food to widows and the poor in Jerusalem.

St stephen protomartyr biography definition us history

Stephen was known for his deep faith, his charity, and his ability to preach powerfully about Jesus Christ. He performed miracles and spoke with such conviction that he gained both followers and enemies.

His preaching eventually led to his arrest by Jewish leaders, who accused him of blasphemy.

In his defense, Stephen gave a powerful speech recounting Israel&#;s history and calling out the religious leaders for resisting the Holy Spirit. Angered by his words, they dragged him out of the city and stoned him to death, making Stephen the first martyr of the Christian faith.

Before his death, Stephen prayed for his persecutors, echoing the words of Jesus, &#;Lord, do not hold this si