Saint Stephen relics feast commemorated on August 2

The Catholic and Orthodox churches mark a liturgical celebration known as the “Invention” of Saint Stephen’s relics on 2 August (some sources note 3 August). The term “invention” refers to the discovery of the saint’s body, which tradition says was found near Jerusalem in the 5th century and later transferred to Rome and Constantinople.

Although Pope John XXIII removed the feast from the Roman calendar, it continues to be observed in various local rites and in the Eastern Orthodox calendar, where it is celebrated alongside other saints such as Saint Theodorus and Saint Photini. The day includes special Masses and prayers recalling Saint Stephen’s martyrdom and the historic movement of his relics.

Articles from France, Greece and other regions describe the historical background, the liturgical texts used, and the ongoing devotion to the relics in churches across Europe and the Middle East.