Saint Stephen the Protomartyr Relic – 1952 Ecclesiastical Certificate
A historic Catholic relic identified by its accompanying ecclesiastical certificate as belonging to Saint Stephen the Protomartyr, the first Christian martyr.
The certificate bears the Latin inscription “ex ossibus Sancti Stephani Protomartyris,” meaning “from the bones of Saint Stephen the Protomartyr.” The relic is enclosed in a round silver-tone metal reliquary with a glazed front and a traditional red backing. The internal label reads S. Stephani Pr., an abbreviation for Saint Stephen the Protomartyr.
Historical Documentation
The accompanying certificate was issued in Bari on 15 June 1952 under the authority of Marcellus Mimmi, Archbishop of Bari. It records the recognition and placement of the relic in its reliquary and bears an ecclesiastical seal and handwritten signatures.
Saint Stephen, celebrated as the first Christian martyr, is remembered for his steadfast faith and witness to Christ, as recounted in the Acts of the Apostles. His feast day is celebrated on 26 December in the Roman Catholic Church.