On December 27, the Bulgarian Orthodox Church venerates the memory of the first Christian martyr, Saint Stephen (Sveti Stefan in Bulgarian). As recorded in the life of the saint, Stephen was diligent in the church service, a model of mercy and patience. He was among the first seven deacons ordained by the first apostles. Like Christ and his disciples, he could work miracles by laying his hands on the sick and they were healed. He was one of the most zealous followers of the doctrine and with his words and deeds he converted more and more people to Christianity.

In Greek, the name Stephen means "wreath". It is believed that the name of the saint is a translation of the Aramaic Kelil (kelila - wreath, crown). According to legend, when the relics of the saint were discovered, a plaque with the name Kelil was found in the tomb, which leads many researchers to believe that this is the birth name of the saint.

St. Stephen is the patron saint of many Bulgarian churches, including one of the shrines of the Bulgarian struggle for church independence - the Iron Church "St. Stephen" in Istanbul.

The troparion performed in honour of St. Stefan on this day reads:

“Because of all you have endured for Christ our God,

you have been given a royal crown,

O First and Holy Martyr Stephen!

You have put your persecutors to shame

and have seen your Saviour enthroned

at the right hand of the Father.

Do not cease to intercede for the salvation of our souls.”