Prayer to Archdeacon Stephen the First Martyr

O Holy First Martyr, Apostolic Archdeacon Stephen! Kneeling on the knee of our soul and heart, we beseech thee: lift up thine hands to the Lord, and help the whole human race, the Intercessor and Intercessor for Thy Son, the Most Holy Virgin Mother, and for us (names) who ever provoke us to anger with sin and sloth, pray to our Good Saviour, that He may grant us grace for timely help to repentance, and through your intercession and intercession of Your Most Holy Mother, on this dreadful and just day, may our sins not be brought before us, but according to His mercies, having been begged by you, may he speak to our soul: I am your salvation forever and ever.