Angelus Message of the Holy Father on the Feast of St Stephen, 26^th of December

(December 26, 2009) As our hearts are still filled with wonder and light that emanates from the cave of Bethlehem where Mary, Joseph and the shepherds adored the Saviour, today we commemorate the feast of the deacon St. Stephen, the first Christian martyr. His example helps us to go deeper into the mystery of Christmas, where, filled with the Holy Spirit, St Stephen did not hesitate to give his life for the sake of Lord. He, like his master, died forgiving his persecutors which makes us understand how the entrance of the Son of God in the world would lead us to a new way of life, a new way of love that breaks down the barriers between people, making them brothers in the great family of God's children, said Pope Benedict XVI. He was speaking at his noon Angelus Message on Saturday, 26^th of December on the Feast of St Stephen. Further, the Holy Father said, St Stephen is also the first deacon of the Church, who becoming a servant of the poor for the sake of Christ followed him closely to make a supreme gift of himself. The martyr, in fact is the one who dies with the certainty of knowledge that we are loved by God and by preferring the love of Christ, he has chosen the best part. Today, in presenting the model as a deacon St. Stephen, the Church demands of us to show hospitality and love towards the poor, he added. The Feast of St. Stephen also reminds us, said the Pope, of the many believers in various parts of the world undergoing trials and tribulations because of the faith and called on all Christians to ask for the heavenly support and help those suffering through their prayers. While greeting the English speaking audience at the Square, Pope Benedict XVI said: As we continue our celebration of this joyful Christmas season, I warmly greet all the English-speaking visitors and pilgrims gathered here in Saint Peter’s Square. Together with Christians across the globe, we rejoice at the birth of our Saviour, Prince of Peace and light of the world. Today we honour the Church’s first martyr, Saint Stephen, who was fearless in bearing witness to Christ and who shed his blood for love of him. We pray for those Christians who suffer persecution today. And we commend to the intercession of their heavenly patron, Saint Stephen, all deacons and altar servers. May God bless all of you!