Feast of St. Stephen the Martyr

Today we celebrate the Feast of St. Stephen the Martyr. One wonders why the Church would celebrate the feast of a martyr on the Second Day of the Octave of Christ’s nativity.  I remember a comment made of the late Pope John Paul II about this feast. He said, , “The Church calls the day of martyrdom a dies natalis (day of birth)." I like this idea that by virtue of Christ's death and Resurrection, the death of the martyr is a birth in Heaven. Secondly, on Christmas we celebrate the birth of Jesus: the Word made flesh. St. Stephen was martyred for proclaiming Jesus...for proclaiming the Word to the world.

On this day, I suggest we recognize that we are all called to proclaim God's Word. Take a few minutes with your family to read from Scriptures. Read the Martyrdom of St. Stephen which is found in Acts 6:8-10; 7:54-59. Stephen died praying for those who killed him, so take a few moments to pray for those who are your enemies. Until tomorrow...a blessed Christmas and God bless.

posted by: crossman at 07:37 | link | comments |
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