St. Stephen - Protomartyr and Defender of the Faith

Cloaked in vibrant blue and green and crowned with heavenly light, St. Stephen stands with hand over heart, eyes lifted to eternity. A palm of martyrdom rests in one hand, and in the other, a golden church—symbol of the foundation he helped lay through his blood.

Framed in intricate gold with celestial motifs, this artwork honors the first deacon and first martyr of the Church—a man whose bold love of Christ shattered earthly fear and opened the heavens.

Short Biography:
St. Stephen was one of the first seven deacons ordained by the apostles to serve the early Christian community (Acts 6:1–6). Full of faith and the Holy Spirit, Stephen became a powerful preacher and miracle worker. His fearless proclamation of the Gospel led to his arrest and trial before the Sanhedrin, where he delivered a bold testimony that enraged his accusers.

As they stoned him outside Jerusalem, Stephen became the first Christian martyr, crying out, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit... Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” (Acts 7:59–60). His death marked the beginning of widespread persecution—and the unstoppable spread of the Gospel.

Symbolism & Elements:

• Palm Branch – Martyrdom and eternal victory in Christ

• Golden Church – His role as a spiritual cornerstone of the Church

• Upturned Gaze – His vision of the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God

• Rich Blue and Green Robes – Signifying divine service and courageous charity

• Ornate Frame with Cross and Angels – Heaven’s honor for the first martyr

Perfect For:

• Feast Day reflection (December 26)

• Diaconate formation, confirmation gifts, and Church history study

• Religious education classrooms and parish halls

• Homes devoted to martyr saints and early Church heroes

• Encouragement in times of persecution or spiritual trial

Product Details:

• Format: Digital Download Only

• File Type: High-resolution PNG (300 DPI)

• Sizes Included: 8x10", 11x14", 16x20"

• Created by: Halo & Light Studios – Catholic sacred art that magnifies heroic faith and early Church glory

Patron Saint of:
Deacons · Stonemasons · Altar Servers · Those falsely accused · The dying

"Behold, I see the heavens opened and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God."
– St. Stephen, Acts 7:56

Let this powerful image of St. Stephen embolden your spirit to speak truth in love, forgive even in suffering, and live with your eyes fixed on heaven.