Story of St. Stepanos
The Feast of Saint Stephen is a special feast celebrated in the Armenian Church on December 25. On this day, the great protomartyr and first deacon of the Christian Church is honored. In remembering Saint Stephen, we also honor and remember all the deacons who faithfully serve the Armenian Church. Saint Stephen (Saint Stepanos in Armenian) was the first Christian martyr and the first of the seven deacons ordained by the Apostles. These seven deacons were appointed to care for the practical and charitable needs of the Hellenic (Greek-speaking) Jewish Christian community in Jerusalem. Yet, as we read in Acts chapters 6 and 7, Saint Stephen's ministry extended far beyond these responsibilities. Filled with grace and the power of God, he performed great wonders and signs among the people and boldly proclaimed the Word of God. Saint Stephen devoted himself to spreading God's Word and sharing His love within the Jewish community of Jerusalem. His preaching, however, brought opposition. He was falsely accused of blasphemy and brought before the Sanhedrin. After giving a powerful testimony of his faith, he was condemned and taken outside the city, where he was stoned to death. Tradition identifies the place of his martyrdom with the eastern gate of Jerusalem, which later became known as Saint Stephen's Gate. As he was being stoned, Saint Stephen prayed, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” Then, kneeling down, he cried with a loud voice, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” (Acts 7:59–60) Saint Stephen was the first Christian martyr and the first protodeacon. His feast day holds profound meaning for us as Armenian Christians. Through his faith, courage, service, and forgiveness, Saint Stephen remains an enduring example of Christian discipleship. On his feast day, we honor him and remember all those who have followed his example of faithful service to Christ and His Church. A beautiful stained-glass window depicting Saint Stephen is located above the sanctuary doors of our church. Each time those doors are opened, the window reminds us of this great saint whose name we have chosen to honor and remember. We at Saint Stepanos Armenian Apostolic Church are proud to bear the name of Saint Stepanos and to carry forward his example of faith, service, courage, and devotion to Christ.
The Feast of Saint Stephen is a special feast celebrated in the Armenian Church on December 25. On this day, the great protomartyr and first deacon of the Christian Church is honored. In remembering Saint Stephen, we also honor and remember all the deacons who faithfully serve the Armenian Church. Saint Stephen (Saint Stepanos in Armenian) was the first Christian martyr and the first of the seven deacons ordained by the Apostles. These seven deacons were appointed to care for the practical and charitable needs of the Hellenic (Greek-speaking) Jewish Christian community in Jerusalem. Yet, as we read in Acts chapters 6 and 7, Saint Stephen's ministry extended far beyond these responsibilities. Filled with grace and the power of God, he performed great wonders and signs among the people and boldly proclaimed the Word of God. Saint Stephen devoted himself to spreading God's Word and sharing His love within the Jewish community of Jerusalem. His preaching, however, brought opposition. He was falsely accused of blasphemy and brought before the Sanhedrin. After giving a powerful testimony of his faith, he was condemned and taken outside the city, where he was stoned to death. Tradition identifies the place of his martyrdom with the eastern gate of Jerusalem, which later became known as Saint Stephen's Gate. As he was being stoned, Saint Stephen prayed, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” Then, kneeling down, he cried with a loud voice, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” (Acts 7:59–60) Saint Stephen was the first Christian martyr and the first protodeacon. His feast day holds profound meaning for us as Armenian Christians. Through his faith, courage, service, and forgiveness, Saint Stephen remains an enduring example of Christian discipleship. On his feast day, we honor him and remember all those who have followed his example of faithful service to Christ and His Church. A beautiful stained-glass window depicting Saint Stephen is located above the sanctuary doors of our church. Each time those doors are opened, the window reminds us of this great saint whose name we have chosen to honor and remember. We at Saint Stepanos Armenian Apostolic Church are proud to bear the name of Saint Stepanos and to carry forward his example of faith, service, courage, and devotion to Christ.