Last updated on August 16, 2022
The day after Christmas is historically (in the Western/Latin Church) recognized as the “Feast of St. Stephen.” Stephen is the first Christian Martyr. His last words and death-by-stoning is recorded in Acts 6:8 – 7:60. The story is astonishing as Stephen is arrested and then basically recounts the Old Testament narratives and how it points to the truth of Jesus. He had been debating the critics of Christianity for quite some time and had made many enemies. In essence, he was showing the Jewish leadership that their rejection of Christ and his followers placed them at odds with their own traditions, Scriptures, and prophets. Stephen, in essence, spoke the truth and would be killed for it. As he was being stoned, he had a vision of Jesus at the right hand of God and asked the Lord to forgive his murderers. Many future martyrs would follow his example – speaking the truth, following the lead of the Holy Spirit, and courageously confronting hatred and death as a result.
What I did not know was that there are many historical celebrations on this day, especially in Ireland. In fact, it’s a public holiday there. Check out this website for some unusual traditions involving “Wrens” and the “Wren Boys.” In Scandinavia and elsewhere, the occasion is often marked by visiting friends and going to parties.
Below is the collect for the day from the Book of Common Prayer (2019).
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