Hieromartyr
Stephen of Rome
Hieromartyr Stephen, Pope of Rome, and those with him
New Calendar August 2 Old Calendar August 15
Why they are a saint
As Pope of Rome, Stephen of Rome is numbered with the saints of the Church. A hieromartyr is honored for dying for Christ while serving as a pastor or, in some commemorations, as a named witness of that rank. The calendar keeps his martyrdom as a testimony under persecution.
Limited historical information is available about this saint.
Patronage / why chosen as patron
Orthodox Christians usually take Stephen of Rome as a patron when they bear the name Stephen at baptism, or were born or baptized near the feast on August 2. As a martyr, he is also asked for courage and faithfulness under trial.
Prayer
O holy Stephen of Rome, pray to God for us.
A short general prayer to a saint, not a liturgical text. No public-domain troparion for this saint is included.