July 13

Reading

According to some, the Saint Stephen celebrated today was a nephew of Saint John of Damascus, different from the one celebrated on October 28, who later also became a Bishop.

Apolytikion of Righteous Stephen

Plagal of the Fourth Tone

You are a guide of Orthodoxy, a teacher of piety and modesty, a luminary of the world, the God inspired pride of monastics. O wise Stephanos, you have enlightened everyone by your teachings. You are the harp of the Spirit. Intercede to Christ our God for the salvation of our souls.

Kontakion of Righteous Stephen

Third Tone

Since thou wast a man of prayer and an ascetic, O Stephen, thou wast pleasing to the Lord, Who crowned thy labours with wonders; having sought the light of Heaven throughout thy whole life, thou dost now rejoice on high, chanting with the Angels. Hence we honour thee with longing, O righteous Father, as an initiate of God.