FEAST OF STS STEPHEN OF MAR SABA AND BENJAMIN OF PERSIA – 31st MARCH
March 31, 2026
Matthew 20:28
March 31, 2026
FAITHFULNESS IN PERSECUTION
“Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life.”
— Revelation 2:10
Saint Benjamin, a deacon in Persia, lived during a time of intense persecution under King Yazdegerd I and later his successor. Despite knowing the danger, he continued to preach Christ boldly. When arrested, he was warned to stop preaching, but he refused. Even after being released once through the intervention of a Roman ambassador, he resumed proclaiming the Gospel with even greater zeal. His courage shows that true faith does not shrink in the face of suffering but stands firm, trusting in God’s promise.
COURAGE TO PROCLAIM THE GOSPEL
“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations.”
— Matthew 28:19
Saint Benjamin did not keep his faith hidden. As a deacon, he actively preached and converted many to Christianity. Even under threat of death, he chose obedience to Christ over personal safety. After being re-arrested for preaching, he endured severe torture rather than deny his mission. His life reminds us that the call to evangelize is not optional but a sacred duty, even when it demands sacrifice.
ENDURANCE IN SUFFERING
“I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.”
— Philippians 4:13
Saint Benjamin suffered brutal torture for his faith. Historical accounts tell of the intense pain he endured before his martyrdom. Yet he remained steadfast, strengthened by Christ. His endurance was not human strength alone but divine grace at work within him. His suffering becomes a witness that God’s power is made perfect in weakness.
OBEDIENCE ABOVE FEAR
“We must obey God rather than men.”
— Acts 5:29
When ordered to stop preaching, Saint Benjamin chose obedience to God over submission to earthly authority. Even after being given a chance to live quietly, he continued his ministry, knowing the consequences. His life teaches that true discipleship requires choosing God’s will above all else, even when it leads to hardship or death.
THE POWER OF WITNESS
“Let your light shine before others.”
— Matthew 5:16
Through his preaching and ultimately his martyrdom, Saint Benjamin became a powerful witness to Christ. His fearless testimony inspired others and strengthened the early Church in Persia. His death was not in vain but became a seed of faith for many. His life reminds us that our witness—through words and actions—can draw others to God.
PRAYER
Heavenly Father,
You gave Saint Benjamin the courage to preach Your Word and remain faithful even unto death. Grant us the same strength to stand firm in our faith, to proclaim Your truth boldly, and to endure trials with trust in Your grace. Help us to obey You above all else and to be living witnesses of Your love in the world.
Through Christ our Lord. Amen
