Saint Stefan the First

Saint Stefan the First, also known as the Protomartyr, was the first Christian martyr and one of the first seven deacons ordained by the Apostles. Chosen to serve the early Church in Jerusalem, he boldly proclaimed the Gospel and was stoned to death for his faith, as recounted in the Acts of the Apostles. His relics were miraculously discovered in 415 AD and are venerated across the Christian world. A beloved figure in Orthodox iconography, Saint Stefan the First is depicted as a young deacon holding a censer or the Gospel. Explore our handcrafted embroidered pocket icons honoring the first martyr of the Christian Church.