The Octave of St. Stephen continues the Church’s meditation on the first Christian martyr, who was stoned to death around AD 34–35 after boldly confessing Christ before the Sanhedrin (Acts 7). Stephen’s vision of the risen Lord and his prayer for forgiveness for his persecutors mark him as a faithful imitator of Christ. By extending his feast through the octave, the Church reflects more deeply on the cost of discipleship and the hope of resurrection promised to those who die in Christ.
As we continue to remember Stephen, we are reminded that Christian witness is shaped by the cross and sustained by hope in Christ’s victory. May his faithful confession encourage perseverance, forgiveness, and trust in the Lord who receives His servants into eternal glory (Acts 7:55–60).
Catholic Jonesboro 