In this episode of "A Word of Hope," Father Thomas Patrick Stephen Lynch reflects on the Feast of St. Stephen, the first Christian martyr, celebrated on December 26th.
Broadcasting from Chicago, Fr. Thomas shares a personal story about choosing "Stephen" as his confirmation name at age 12, initially without fully understanding the sacrifice it implied. He explores what it truly means to be a martyr and a witness to the faith—not necessarily seeking death, but possessing the courage to proclaim the Gospel truth in the face of opposition.
Drawing from Luke Chapter 12, Fr. Thomas reminds us that we do not need to worry about what to say when challenged, for the Holy Spirit will provide the words. Join us for this inspiring reflection on how the Sacrament of Confirmation empowers us to live as bold witnesses for Christ.
*Timeline:*
0:00 - Introduction & The Feast of St. Stephen (Dec 26)
0:27 - Choosing a Confirmation Name: A Personal Story
0:54 - The Reality of Martyrdom: Do We All Have to Suffer?
1:25 - Understanding True Witness to the Faith
1:55 - Proclaiming Christ in a Controversial World
2:21 - Scripture Reflection: Luke 12 and Trusting the Holy Spirit
2:58 - Speaking the Truth of the Gospel
3:15 - Confirmation as a Call to Courageous Witness
#WordOfHope #StStephen #Catholic #FeastDay #Martyrdom #Confirmation #HolySpirit #Gospel #Christianity #Faith #CatholicChicago #DominicanFriars #DailyReflection #BibleStudy #Courage