SaintsforSinners.com

Stephen's story took place long ago. Stephen was one of 7 Deacons chosen to help administer money to the poor and sick. He was a very articulate person and was well educated about Judaism. Some scholars believe that Stephen was a Jewish convert to Christianity. Stephen found himself in trouble at one point in his life and he was brought before a court where he defended himself. Stephen's speech was full of truth and passion but his listeners refused to truly hear his words. Their minds had been stubbornly made up before the hearing even began! When Stephen started to be effective by using reason, the hearing was disrupted, a riot ensued and Stephen was driven out of town. Rogues then rushed after him, picked up stones and pelted Stephen to death. Even while dying, Stephen held true to his inner convictions and he spoke out to God in public prayer. Stephen asked God to forgive his murderers for stoning him to death. In most artistic renderings and our SfS medal, Stephen is shown holding a stone. Pray to Saint Stephen when you are faced with problems that seem larger than life. If you are forced into a situation where intellect and reason are sadly set aside, Stephen can help you hold true to your beliefs without surrendering your fair position to the court of "popular opinion."

© 2000