Today is the Feast of Saint Stephen, the Church’s first martyr. Saint Stephen was martyred within a couple of years after Jesus’ ascension into Heaven. He was one of seven deacons who the Apostles appointed to assist them in their work of caring for the poor as the Church began to grow.Stephen was a man of deep faith and was filled with the Holy Spirit. After he was appointed deacon, he began to preach with boldness. Stephen was stoned to death for his belief in Jesus but as we was being stoned he prayed for his persecutors to be forgiven. God never abandons us. In fact, when we suffer the most or endure persecution, rejection or any form of mistreatment, God is especially present. Look at your own life and consider those moments that you find most challenging.  Ask Saint Stephen to pray for you so that you will be open to the inspired words and actions of our Lord when you need them the most.