The Archdiocese of Detroit celebrated the feast day of St. Stephen on Dec. 26, marking the Catholic Church’s honoring of the patron saint of bricklayers and stonemasons; he was stoned to death by the Jewish council after the crucifixion of Christ. 

St. Stephen is known for being the first martyr in the Christian faith. 

“St. Stephen was one of the first deacons of the Church, ordained by the Apostles. He is written about in the Acts of the Apostles, which chronicles his pastoral care and charitable deeds to early Christians in need," The Archdiocese of Detroit posted on Facebook. "He performed signs and wonders among the people, ultimately leading to him becoming the first martyr of the Church. Even in the fact of persecution, St. Stephen remained conformed to Jesus and his life serves to inspire us as a reflection of his love for the Lord. We observe his feast day on December 26.

"St. Stephen’s Catholic Church in New Boston is a longstanding community dating back to 1874.  Whether you are looking for a new parish home, returning to church, or want to learn more about the Catholic faith, all are welcome,” the Archdiocese of Detroit posted on Facebook. 

St. Stephen was among the seven deacons appointed by the disciples of Christ and tasked with caring for elderly widows, according to Britannica. While he was being stoned to death by the Jewish authorities, St. Stephen is recorded as having prayed for his killers. 

He was martyred around the year 36 A.D.

A popular prayer to St. Stephen is as follows: “O glorious St. Stephen, first Martyr for the Faith, filled with compassion for those who invoke you, with love for those who suffer, heavily laden with the weight of my troubles. I kneel at your feet and humbly beg you to take my present need under your special protection. Vouchsafe to recommend it to our Lord Jesus. Cease not to intercede for me until my request is granted. Above all, obtain for me the grace to one day meet God face to face, and with you and Mary and all the angels and saints praise Him through all eternity. O most powerful Saint Stephen, Deacon and martyr, do not let me lose my soul, but obtain for me the grace of winning my way to heaven, forever and ever. “