Today is the day that Holy Mother Church celebrates the feastday of Stephen, the very first disciple who died for his faith in Jesus. Being the first Christian martyr, his story is one where we can draw a lot of inspiration from. Before he breathed his last, he prayed for his persecutors – led by Saul himself (who later became St Paul post conversion). As scripture asserts, a few moments before his death – as he was being stoned – St Stephen’s face shone like the face of an angel. And after he asked God to forgive his killers, he exclaimed: “Lord, receive my spirit!”
On a more personal level, today was an extra-special day, as we had invited our Chaplain, Fr Marce, to come to our home chapel to celebrate Holy Mass for the eternal repose of my father’s soul. On this occasion of his 40th day after death, we ask St Stephen to help us pray for Daddy’s journey to Heaven, our true home.
Daddy, may God’s angels meet you and conduct your soul to the sight of the Most High. With the powerful intercession of St Stephen, may the Good Lord, Who has called you back to Him, lovingly and mercifully receive your soul.
Daddy, requiescas in pace!
