The first reading is a reading from the book of the Acts of the Apostles.

Stephen filled with grace and power was working great wonders and signs among the people.

Certain members of the so-called synagogue of freedmen, Syrians and Alexandrians,

and people from Sicilia and Asia came forward and debated with Stephen, but they could not withstand the

wisdom and the spirit with which he had spoken. When they heard this, they were infuriated

and they ground their teeth at him, but he, filled with the Holy Spirit, looked up intently to heaven

and saw the glory of God and Jesus standing at the right hand of God and he said

Behold I see the heavens open and the son of man standing at the right hand of God

But they cried out in a loud voice covered their ears and rushed upon him together

They threw him out of the city and began to stone him the witnesses laid down their cloaks at the feet of a young man named Saul.

As they were stoning Stephen, he called out, Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.

The word of the Lord, thanks be to God.

And to your hands, O Lord, I commend my spirit. And to your hands, O Lord, I commend my spirit.

Into your hands, O Lord, I commend my spirit.

Be my rock of refuge, a stronghold to give me safety.

For you are my rock and my fortress.

For your namesake, you will lead me and guide me.

Into your hands, O Lord, I commend my spirit.

Into your hands, I commend my spirit.

You will redeem me, O Lord, O faithful God.

I will rejoice and be glad because of your mercy.

Hens, O Lord, I commend my spirit.

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