☩ This vibrant icon depicts Saint Stephen, the first Christian martyr and Archdeacon, at the moment of his stoning. Though surrounded by violence, Stephen gazes upward in serene prayer as the Holy Trinity appears in heavenly glory above him.

☩ Stephen, a Hellenistic Jew and one of the seven deacons appointed by the Apostles, was known for his powerful preaching and miracles. According to the Acts of the Apostles, he stood before the Sanhedrin and declared Christ as the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets, which enraged the authorities.

☩ Even in death, Stephen imitated Christ’s love by forgiving his executioners, praying: “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.”

☩ This 2024 oil on canvas painting by Haile Maskel Samuels captures both the physical suffering and spiritual transcendence of Saint Stephen, crowned as a royal witness to the faith. The bold colors and composition reflect Ethiopian Orthodox iconographic tradition.