Saint Stephen is venerated as the first Christian martyr, known as the Protomartyr. He was one of the seven deacons appointed by the early church in Jerusalem, noted for his faith, wisdom, and miracles. Accused of blasphemy, he delivered a powerful defense before the Sanhedrin, condemning the Jewish leaders for rejecting Jesus. He was stoned to death around AD 34, with Saul (later Paul) present. His martyrdom sparked the spread of Christianity beyond Jerusalem.
