Saint Stephanus (26th December), arch-martyr and archdeacon (Apostles 6 +7).
He was one of the original seven martyrs and the first one chosen.  He was consecrated by the apostles by the laying on of hands.  The group represented the leaders of the original Hellenistic congregation in Jerusalem.  His staunch criticism of the temple and of the law is a good example of how the Hellenists preached where he preached about Christ’s message (Apostles 7,2-35) is an example of how the Hellenists preached. 

With his convincing sermons Stephanus was able to convert many.  His views on the temple and the differed to those of the apostles, and obviously led to friction between the two groups. After the speech of Stephanus before the high council “all” were dispersed, the apostles however were able to remain in Jerusalem.  The high council condemned Stephanus to death by stoning for his blasphemy.  According to the law, the slanderers were to throw the first stone.  They first of all removed their clothing, so as not to despoil their garments through touching and laid them at the feet of a youth named Paulus (Saul).  But Stephanus saw the skies open and knelt down in prayer and forgave his  adversaries, and died the martyr's death.

This is where the most celebrated events of the legend appear – discovery, ascension and transfer of the remains, resulting in a change in the date.  Jerusalem-Constantinople-Rome (425 AD).  Stephanus and Laurentius, the arch-deacons and arch-martyrs are considered the patron saints of Rome.  They are the martyrs who were the most revered during the Middle Ages.  They are often represented together.  As deacon, Stehanus wears the appropriate garments, including the Dalmatik which usually covers the shawl. He rarely also wears the Manipel with palm tree and book.  The stones are not added until the thirteenth century, as seen in Bamberg Cathedral and at Adam’s Gate.  Additions to later representations are mainly scenes of the stoning, occasionally the sermon or the defense before the high council.  .