St. Stephen I, Pope

St. Stephen I was the 26th pope of the Catholic Church, serving from 254 to 257 AD. He was born in Rome and is remembered for his firm defense of the authority of the papacy in matters of church discipline and doctrine. During his pontificate, he clashed with Saint Cyprian of Carthage over the issue of the rebaptism of heretics. St. Stephen I is venerated for his unwavering commitment to upholding the unity and teachings of the Church. He is the patron saint of stonemasons and bricklayers.