St. Stephen is known for being the first Christian martyr, according to church tradition. He is said to have been martyred in Jerusalem in 36 ce. Although born a Hellenized Jew, he converted to Christianity and was appointed a deacon to Jerusalem’s community of Hellenist converts. During one debate with Diaspora Jews, Stephen’s oratory so offended them that they accused him of blasphemy. He was arrested and charged with speaking against “this holy place and the law.” Stephen’s spirited defense included the implication that the Temple was idolatrous, comparable to Aaron’s golden calf. He was stoned to death shortly thereafter.