St Francis Boys’ College gives to St Dominic’s Children’s Home
December 25, 2025
Saturday December 27th: While it was still dark
December 27, 2025
St. Stephen, Martyr.
In Stephen, we see the victory of love over hatred and life over death.
Matthew 10: 17 – 22
Today we celebrate St. Stephen, the first martyr of the Church, whose faith and courage reflect the words of Jesus in today’s gospel. Christ warns His disciples that following Him will bring trials, rejection, and even persecution. Yet He also promises, “The Spirit of your Father will speak in you.” Stephen’s life embodies that promise.
Filled with the Holy Spirit, Stephen proclaimed the truth of Christ with wisdom and love, even as his enemies turned against him. In the face of violence, he did not answer with anger but with forgiveness: “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” His witness reminds us that true discipleship is not about comfort or success, but about faithfulness and love that endure under pressure.
As we honour St. Stephen, we are invited to ask for the same courage, to speak the truth with compassion, to forgive as Christ forgave, and to trust that the Holy Spirit will sustain us in every trial. In Stephen, we see the victory of love over hatred and life over death.
