St. Stephen, one of the original seven deacons of the Church, was the first Christian martyr. In 36 AD, he was stoned to death, setting an example for others to follow in his faith and devotion. On December 26, we commemorate the Feast Day of St. Stephen as a reminder of Christ's sacrifice and the ultimate purpose of his arrival on earth. Ven. Fulton Sheen noted in his Life of Christ, that only Christ was born to die, and St. Stephen was the first to emulate this in his own death. Known as the patron saint of Austria, Bricklayers, Casket Makers, Deacons, and Stonemasons.