St. Stephen

Critical of the corrupt religious leaders who rejected Jesus, Stephen was an outspoken deacon who did not hold back. "You stiff-necked people!" he yelled once while speaking in Jerusalem. "You always resist the Holy Spirit!" For proclaiming the divinity of Jesus, Stephen was dragged out of the city and stoned to death, thus becoming the Church's first martyr and a symbol of courage for many as the persecution of Christians began.

Feast Day: December 26

Patronage: Deacons, Martyrs