Saint Stephen was born in Cappadocia to Christian parents and showed virtuous behavior from childhood. At the age of seven, he began to learn literacy, and at fifteen, he went to Constantinople to complete his education. Patriarch Germanus, upon learning of his wisdom, kept him close, but soon Stephen left for a monastery, taking monastic vows.
After the death of the Bishop of Suros, the inhabitants of the city turned to Patriarch Germanus with a request for a new bishop. The Patriarch, having received a revelation from an Angel, called upon Stephen and appointed him Archbishop of Suros. Stephen baptized the entire city and its surroundings over the course of five years.
During the reign of Leo the Isaurian, who initiated iconoclasm, Saint Stephen refused to obey the imperial decrees regarding the veneration of icons. He boldly opposed the emperor, for which he was subjected to severe tortures and imprisoned. After Leo's death, the new emperor Constantine freed Stephen, who returned to his flock and continued to shepherd them.
Stephen prophesied about the coming of a wicked king and, despite his sufferings, remained faithful to Christ. He passed away on December 15, and after his death, a miracle occurred: the blind Ephraim, who received help from the saint, regained his sight. The body of the saint was buried with honor, and he was glorified as a miracle worker.
