Feast of Saint Stephen, the First Martyr

Then Stephen, filled with grace and fortitude, wrought great signs and miracles among the people. But certain ones, from the synagogue of the so-called Libertines, and of the Cyrenians, and of the Alexandrians, and of those who were from Cilicia and Asia rose up and were disputing with Stephen. But they were not able to resist the wisdom and the Spirit with which he was speaking. Then, upon hearing these things, they were deeply wounded in their hearts, and they gnashed their teeth at him. But he, being filled with the Holy Spirit, and gazing intently toward heaven, saw the glory of God and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. And he said, “Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing at the right hand of God.” Then they, crying out with a loud voice, blocked their ears and, with one accord, rushed violently toward him. And driving him out, beyond the city, they stoned him. And witnesses placed their garments beside the feet of a youth, who was called Saul. And as they were stoning Stephen, he called out and said, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.” Then, having been brought to his knees, he cried out with a loud voice, saying, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” And when he had said this, he fell asleep in the Lord. And Saul was consenting to his murder.