Slava St. Archdeacon Stephen – Stevanjdan: Customs and Traditions

Who was Saint Archdeacon Stephen?

Saint Stephen was a kinsman of the Apostle Paul and the first of the seven deacons ordained by the Holy Apostles to serve the poor in Jerusalem. Because of his unwavering faith and his powerful preaching about the resurrection of Christ, he became the first Christian to suffer and die for the Lord, which is why he is called the Protomartyr. The account of his martyrdom—being stoned to death—is described in the Holy Scriptures as an act of immense love and forgiveness, as he prayed for his executioners even in his final moments.

Serbian Folk Customs for Stevanjdan

In Serbia, St. Stephen is celebrated with great reverence, and several unique rituals are tied to this feast, marking the transition from Christmas celebrations:

• Removal of the Christmas Straw: The most significant custom on Stevanjdan is the removal of the Christmas straw (slama) from the home. The straw, which has been on the floor since Christmas Eve, is gathered quietly and placed in the branches of fruit trees, in beehives, or in the fields. It is believed that this act blesses the land and ensures a fruitful harvest in the coming year.

• Cleaning the Home: On this day, housewives traditionally sweep the house thoroughly. This "sweeping" symbolizes the removal of the old year's remnants and the preparation of the home for progress and prosperity in the new year.

• The Third Day of Christmas: Since the feast falls on January 9th, it is celebrated as the "Third Day of Christmas." The atmosphere is exceptionally joyful, and the Slava table often features the remaining holiday roasts, keeping the Christmas spirit alive.

The Icon of St. Stephen and Traditional Gifts

On icons, Saint Stephen is always depicted in a deacon's robe (stihar), holding a censer in one hand and a stone (the symbol of his martyrdom) or a model of a church in the other.

• An Icon for Your Home: As a protector of the state and the household, the icon of St. Stephen is an essential part of any celebratory home. Browse our collection of hand-painted and silver-plated icons of St. Stephen.

• Slava Sets and Decor: Since this is the first major Slava of the calendar year, many families choose this time to renew their Slava sets, censers, and candle holders. These items make thoughtful gifts for those celebrating their family's patron saint.

Saint Stephen – The Patron Saint and Day of Republika Srpska

• Special importance in RS: On this feast day, January 9, 1992, the Republic of the Serbian People in Bosnia and Herzegovina—known today as Republika Srpska—was proclaimed.

• Statehood and Tradition: The choice of Saint Stephen as the patron protector was no coincidence. The medieval rulers of the Nemanjić Dynasty, who also ruled parts of present-day Bosnia and Herzegovina, held this saint in the highest regard. Every ruler of this dynasty added the name Stefan (meaning "The Crowned One" in Greek) to their personal name, in honor of the Protomartyr.

The History and Significance of St. Archdeacon Stephen

Saint Stephen was not merely one of the seven deacons of the early Church; he was the person whose blood solidified Christian perseverance. A kinsman of the Apostle Paul, Stephen was filled with faith and the power of the Holy Spirit, performing great miracles among the people.

• The Protomartyr: He is recognized as the first Christian to be martyred for Christ. His martyrdom occurred just one year after the Ascension of Jesus. Accused of blasphemy, he was brought before the Sanhedrin (the Jewish council), where he bravely testified that Jesus was the Messiah.

• Stoning and Forgiveness: Stephen was taken outside the city of Jerusalem and stoned to death. As the stones fell upon him, he followed Christ's example, kneeling and praying to God to forgive his executioners. Present at his death was a young man named Saul (later Saint Apostle Paul), who at that time was one of the persecutors of Christians.

• The First Archdeacon: He was chosen by the Apostles as the first of seven deacons (hence the title Archdeacon) to care for the poor and widows in Jerusalem while the Apostles focused on preaching. He remains an eternal symbol of Christian charity and service to others.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Why is Christmas straw removed on St. Stephen's Day?

It marks the end of the core Christmas cycle in the home. By placing the straw in orchards or fields, the family shares the Christmas blessing with nature to ensure fertility.

Is Stevanjdan a fasting Slava?

It is not a mandatory fasting day unless January 9th falls on a Wednesday or Friday.

What is a meaningful gift for a St. Stephen Slava?

A high-quality silver icon or a traditional Serbian wine set is always a perfect choice for the host.