Saint Stephen, Martyr was one of the first deacons of the early Christian church and is celebrated as Christianity's first martyr, or protomartyr. Known for his deep faith, wisdom, and miraculous works, he was accused of blasphemy by members of the Hellenistic synagogues and delivered a powerful, sweeping defense of Jewish history before the Sanhedrin, rebuking the religious leaders for rejecting Jesus. Following his speech, he was dragged outside the city of Jerusalem and stoned to death while looking up to heaven and praying for his executioners, echoing the forgiveness of Christ. His martyrdom is famously witnessed by Saul of Tarsus, who would later become the Apostle Paul. His feast day is celebrated annually on December 26.