Saint Stephen, the first Christian martyr, is a powerful example of faith, courage, forgiveness, and unwavering trust in God. His life reminds believers to stand firm in truth, love even those who oppose us, and entrust our lives fully to Christ.
This St. Stephen Novena is prayed for nine consecutive days, seeking his intercession for strength, faith, forgiveness, courage during trials, and grace to remain faithful under pressure.
✝️ Who Is Saint Stephen?
Saint Stephen was one of the first deacons of the Church, chosen for his wisdom, faith, and fullness of the Holy Spirit. Even in persecution and death, he forgave his enemies and glorified God, becoming the first martyr of Christianity.
Praying this novena helps us ask for:
- Courage in difficult situations
- Strength to forgive
- Faith during persecution or injustice
- Grace to witness Christ boldly
🕊️ How to Pray the St. Stephen Novena
- Pray once daily for nine days
- Begin with the Opening Prayer
- Pray the Daily Prayer for each day
- End with the Closing Prayer
🙏 Opening Prayer
O glorious Saint Stephen,
faithful servant of God and fearless witness to the Gospel,
you were filled with wisdom, grace, and the Holy Spirit.
As we begin this novena,
intercede for us before the throne of God.
Help us grow in faith, courage, and forgiveness,
and lead us closer to Jesus Christ.
Amen.
📿 Day 1 – Prayer for Strong Faith
Saint Stephen,
you believed firmly in Christ even unto death.
Pray that my faith may remain strong
in times of doubt, fear, or hardship.
Help me trust God completely in every circumstance.
Amen.
📿 Day 2 – Prayer for Courage
Saint Stephen, fearless defender of truth,
intercede for me that I may have courage
to stand for what is right,
even when it is difficult or unpopular.
Amen.
📿 Day 3 – Prayer for Wisdom
Saint Stephen, filled with divine wisdom,
ask God to grant me clarity of mind and heart.
Help me speak and act with wisdom guided by the Holy Spirit.
Amen.
📿 Day 4 – Prayer for Forgiveness
Saint Stephen,
you forgave those who caused you harm.
Teach me to forgive from my heart,
release anger and resentment,
and reflect Christ’s mercy to others.
Amen.
📿 Day 5 – Prayer for Peace in Trials
Saint Stephen,
even in suffering you remained peaceful.
Pray that I may experience God’s peace
during times of struggle, conflict, or injustice.
Amen.
📿 Day 6 – Prayer for Strength in Persecution
Saint Stephen,
help me remain faithful when my beliefs are challenged.
Give me strength to endure criticism, rejection, or opposition
with humility and grace.
Amen.
📿 Day 7 – Prayer for Love of Enemies
Saint Stephen,
you loved those who harmed you.
Intercede for me that I may love without limits,
pray for my enemies,
and respond to hatred with compassion.
Amen.
📿 Day 8 – Prayer for Faithful Service
Saint Stephen, devoted servant of God’s people,
pray that I may serve others selflessly,
with generosity, humility, and love,
following Christ’s example.
Amen.
📿 Day 9 – Prayer for Eternal Hope
Saint Stephen,
as heaven opened before you,
help me keep my eyes fixed on eternal life.
Strengthen my hope in God’s promises
and guide me toward holiness each day.
Amen.
🙌 Closing Prayer
O Saint Stephen,
first martyr of the Church,
pray for us that we may live boldly in faith,
forgive generously,
and love courageously.
May your example inspire us to remain faithful
until we meet Christ in glory.
Amen.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who was Saint Stephen?
Saint Stephen was the first Christian martyr and one of the Church’s first deacons, known for his faith, wisdom, and forgiveness.
When is the Feast of Saint Stephen celebrated?
The Feast of Saint Stephen is celebrated on December 26.
What intentions can I pray this novena for?
You can pray for courage, faith, forgiveness, justice, strength during persecution, peace in trials, or spiritual growth.
Can this novena be prayed at any time?
Yes. The St. Stephen Novena may be prayed anytime, especially during times of hardship or when seeking courage and faith.
Is this novena suitable for families or groups?
Yes. It can be prayed individually, with families, or in parish and prayer groups.
🕊️ Final Reflection
Saint Stephen’s life teaches us that true victory comes through faith, forgiveness, and trust in God. May these St. Stephen Novena prayers strengthen your heart and draw you closer to Christ.
