St. Stephen’s Day is a public holiday in Croatia and many other countries, but not everyone knows why it is celebrated, particularly the day after Christmas.
For many people, the day after Christmas is simply another day off, perfect for relaxing in front of the TV and enjoying festive meals with family. However, for the faithful, December 26 holds significant importance, as it honors St. Stephen, the first Christian martyr and one of the seven deacons chosen in the early days of the Church.
In the Catholic Church, the Feast of St. Stephen the Protomartyr is observed on December 26, the day after Christmas. This day celebrates new beginnings, and it is customary to visit relatives, friends, and neighbors to extend Christmas greetings.
In Croatia, as well as in many other countries, this day is a public holiday. It is a day to honor and celebrate the "ordinary" person who died for the great ideals and truth of Jesus Christ. The feast has been officially celebrated since December 26, 380 AD, emphasizing the sacrifice Jesus later made on Calvary for the salvation of humanity.
A Symbol of Forgiveness and Justice
Little is known about the life of St. Stephen. However, around 36 AD, due to his open preaching of Jesus’ teachings and his membership in the Christian disciples’ community, he was accused of blasphemy and stoned to death. Before the Sanhedrin, he gave a speech that further provoked the elders of Jerusalem, who then took him outside the city walls to stone him.
The Bible records his last words before his death: “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” St. Stephen is often depicted as a young man dressed in a deacon’s dalmatic, holding a martyr’s palm in one hand and a stone in the other. Today, he is regarded as a symbol of forgiveness and the fight against injustice.
As one of the first deacons, he assisted the apostles and preached the Gospel wherever and whenever he could. For this reason, he is also venerated as the patron saint of deacons, bricklayers, stonemasons, coffin makers, and those suffering from headaches.
In Croatia, this holiday is known as Štefanje, and it is also the name day for all those named Stjepan, Štef, Stipe, Štefica, Štefanija, Stephanie, and similar. His name in Greek means “crown” or “wreath,” so individuals named Krunoslav and Krunoslava also celebrate their name day on this occasion.
In Orthodox churches, St. Stephen’s Day is celebrated on December 27, but since they follow the Julian calendar, this corresponds to January 9 in the Gregorian calendar.
Boxing Day, observed on December 26, originated in the UK and is celebrated in several Commonwealth countries. Its name likely stems from the tradition of giving "Christmas boxes" containing gifts or money to servants, tradespeople, and the less fortunate as a token of gratitude.
Historically, it was a day when wealthy families shared their blessings with those in need. Today, Boxing Day is synonymous with post-Christmas sales, sporting events, and spending time with family. While its charitable roots are less emphasized, the day retains its spirit of giving, making it a meaningful extension of the festive season.
