Today, the Greek Orthodox Church celebrates the feast day of Saints Stephen and Mauritius, honoring their significant contributions to Christianity. Saint Stephen, recognized as the first martyr and deacon, is revered for his unwavering faith and eloquent defense of Jesus Christ, as detailed in the Acts of the Apostles. His legacy continues to inspire believers, while the names Mauritius and its variations are also celebrated today, reflecting the rich tapestry of Christian tradition. This day serves as a reminder of the enduring impact of these saints on the faith and community. πόλη της Ιερουσαλήμ,τον λιθοβόλησαν.
Πότε και που γεννήθηκε ο πρωτομάρτυρας Στέφανος, δε γίνεται γνωστό μέσα από τις Πράξεις των Αποστόλων. Η πρώτη αναφορά που γίνεται προς το πρόσωπό του είναι κατά την εκλογή των διακόνων. Σύμφωνα με την Αγιογραφική περιγραφή, εξ αιτίας της αύξησης των μαθητών, οι Ελληνόφωνοι πιστοί άρχισαν να διαμαρτύρονται πως οι χήρες τους δε δέχονταν την αρμόζουσα προσοχή κατά τη διανομή των τροφίμων. Έτσι οι Απόστολοι σύναξαν όλους τους μαθητές, με σκοπό να εκλέξουν ανάμεσά τους επτά βοηθούς, ώστε να πραγματοποιούν το έργο της διανομής. Ένας από τους εκλεγέντες ήταν και ο Στέφανος. Ο Στέφανος όμως εκτός της αποστολής που του είχε ανατεθεί έβρισκε χρόνο να κηρύσσει και τον θείο Λόγο, ενώ πραγματοποιούσε και θαύματα.
Οι Ιουδαίοι σύντομα συκοφάντησαν τον Στέφανο ότι βλασφήμησε τον Μωυσή και τον Θεό με αποτέλεσμα να οδηγηθεί στο Συνέδριο προς Απολογία. Ο Στέφανος τότε έλεγξε μεIn a poignant reflection of faith and sacrifice, the martyrdom of St. Stephen, the first Christian martyr, continues to resonate with believers around the world. Accused of blasphemy by the Pharisees, Stephen boldly proclaimed his faith before being stoned to death by an enraged mob. His final moments were marked by a plea for forgiveness for his persecutors, highlighting the profound message of compassion and mercy. Following his death, St. Stephen’s remains were said to have been transported to Constantinople by Emperor Constantine, and his legacy is commemorated on December 27, with additional observances for the discovery and transfer of his relics. This enduring story serves as a powerful reminder of the strength of conviction in the face of adversity.In a significant religious observance, the feast day of Saint Stephen, the first Christian martyr, is celebrated, highlighting his unwavering faith and courage in the face of persecution.Known for his powerful defense against the Jewish authorities,Saint Stephen’s legacy continues to inspire millions around the world. As Christians reflect on his martyrdom, thay are reminded of the importance of steadfastness in their beliefs and the ultimate sacrifice made for their faith. This day serves not only as a commemoration of his life but also as a call to uphold the values of love and forgiveness that he exemplified.