On this day, June 15 according to the Julian Calendar (June 28 civil calendar), the Georgian Orthodox Church commemorates Holy Apostle Stephen — Synaxis.
The Holy Apostle Stephen is commemorated on this day for the translation of his holy relics. Saint Stephen, the first Christian martyr (Protomartyr), was one of the seven deacons chosen by the Apostles to serve the early Church in Jerusalem. He was full of faith and the Holy Spirit, performing great wonders and signs among the people.
When accused before the Sanhedrin, Stephen gave a fearless testimony of faith, recounting the history of God’s covenant with Israel and proclaiming Jesus as the fulfillment of all prophecy. Before his martyrdom by stoning, he saw heaven opened and Christ standing at the right hand of God. His death, witnessed by Saul of Tarsus, planted a seed that bore fruit in Paul’s conversion.
The Church commemorates on this date the translation of Saint Stephen’s relics, honoring the Protomartyr whose sacrifice marked the beginning of Christian witness unto death.
May the intercessions of Holy Apostle Stephen — Synaxis be with us all.