In today’s Gospel reading from Matthew, Jesus warns his disciples that men “will hand you over to courts and scourge you.” These words are realized in the martyrdom of Saint Stephen as told in the first reading from the Acts of the Apostles. Tradition regards Stephen as the first Christian martyr, an example of fortitude and suffering for love of Christ. Saint Cyprian, speaking of the actions taken against Stephen tells us: “Could you keep all God’s commandments, were it not for the strength of patience? That was what enabled Stephen to hold out, in spite of being stoned he did not call down vengeance on his executioners, but rather forgiveness. Through his glorious death, he was the model of all the martyrs that would come after him.” Like Jesus, Stephen dies commending his soul to God and praying for his persecutors. At this point, Saint Luke brings in Saul, who cooperates in the proceedings by watching the executioners’ clothes; Saul will soon experience the benefit of Stephen’s intercession. If Stephen had not prayed to God, the Church would not have had Paul. Stephen has died, but his example and teaching continue to speak across the world.