Stephen, Proto-Martyr, Saturday – 26th December 2020 — Gospel: Mt 10,17-22
Daring Preacher
Stephen was the first of the deacons appointed to help the apostles in preaching, baptizing, and distributing alms. He zealously preached the faith and “performed great miracles and wonders among the people” (Acts 6,8). This fearless preaching naturally enraged his accusers. When the Jews could not refute his arguments they bribed witnesses to charge him with blasphemy against Moses and against God. They took him in the council and falsely accused him. Stephen knew that God was with him. He had set his mind on things that are in heaven. He contrasted God’s mercies with the ingratitude of the Jews. Therefore, his opponents dragged him outside the city and stoned him to death. In return, the dying Stephen knelt down and prayed the Lord to forgive those who were killing him.
