Saint Stephen is venerated as the first martyr, or protomartyr, of Christianity. He was condemned to death for blasphemy and stoned to death around 33 AD, not long after the crucifixion of Jesus.
The site of his martyrdom is believed to be in Jerusalem near the Damascus Gate, where the Church of Saint Stephen (or St. Étienne) was built.
A long-standing tradition holds that a large portion of his relics are in the Basilica of Saint Lawrence Outside the Walls (San Lorenzo fuori le Mura) in Rome.
Relics of St. Stephen were transferred westward to various European cities over time, and portions are now found in many different places.
He is the patron saint of deacons, bricklayers, and stonemasons.
Celebrating his martyrdom the day after Christmas is a powerful way to show that his death was a consequence of his belief in Jesus, highlighting the commitment and sacrifice required by the faith.