Lithography (icon) of Saint Stephen the Archdeacon with real gold leaf in MDF.

Icon weight per size selection: 18x14cm. ~ 360gr. / 24x18cm ~ 600gr / 32x24cm. ~ 1150gr. / 45x35cm 2000gr.

Saint Stephen was the first in a row among the seven deacons who had been elected, at the suggestion of the Apostles, to care for the widows and the poor of Jerusalem. Stephen was a man full of faith and devoted his whole life to preaching the Word of Christ. He was also distinguished for his miraculous and charitable work which provoked the envy and hatred of the Jews. Unable to confront him, they accused him of blaspheming God and Moses.

Stephen was led to the Council of the Jews to apologize. His apology was a catapult against the religious leaders of the Jews, with the result that the members of the Council led him out of the city of Jerusalem and stoned him to death. The Saint was the first Christian who martyred and for this reason he was named First Martyr. The Orthodox Christian Church commemorates him on December 27 of each year. Saint Stephen is the patron saint of Skydra and Arnaia, Greece.

Apolytikion of Saint Stephen the Protomartyr

Fourth Tone

For the struggles you endured for Christ God, a royal diadem crowns your head, O First Champion of Martyrs. For you refuted the folly of the Jews and beheld your Savior on the right of the Father. Ever beseech Him, therefore, for our souls.