Stephen the Protomartyr (XXIc) Icon - S336

The Apostle Stephen was the first deacon of the Church. For this, he is called "Protodeacon" or "Archdeacon," and as he was the first Christian martyr, he is called "Protomartyr."

While performing his missionary work, he defeated some Jews in a debate. They brought him before the Sanhedrin, accusing him of blasphemy against Moses. In response, he gave a fiery speech which recounted the history of the Jewish people and their sinful persecution of the prophets and Jesus Christ. In the middle of this speech, he described seeing a vision of Christ standing at the right hand of God.

The Jews then dragged him out and stoned him to death. Before he gave up his soul, he prayed for his murderers and forgave them. They left his body for the animals to desecrate, but the Jewish teacher Gamaliel secretly buried him.

Saint Stephen's principal feast is on December 27. He is also commemorated on August 2 and September 15.

Icon by the hand of Georgi Chimev.

PRODUCTION

Our icons are hand-crafted and made-to-order.  Please allow 3 to 4 weeks for delivery.

Classic Icon

• 3/4 inch MDF board
• Real wood veneer
• Paper museum-quality icon print

Masterpiece Icon

• 1 inch solid poplar board
• Traditional oak cross-slats
• Canvas museum-quality icon print

Icon Finish

Plain

• Natural, unfinished wood backing
• Standard museum-quality icon print

Protective Wax Backing

• Beeswax finish protects from moisture and adds a beautiful luster to the wood backing

Heavy Duty Coating