Fr. Stephen Folorunso
Born in Lagos, Nigeria
1985-1990-Studied at SS. Peter & Paul Seminary, Bodija, Ibadan, Nigeria
1997-2000-Mount St. Mary Seminary, Emmitsburg, MD
Degree: B.A. Philosophy at SS. Peter & Paul Seminary in affliation witht he University of Ibadan, Oyo-state, Nigeria

May 18th, 2000-Ordained by Bishop Thomas Doran-Bishop of Rockford , Il.
2012-Entered Diocese of Bismarck

June 28th, 2012-Tri-Parish Pastor 
Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Hettinger,
Reeder Catholic Church in Reeder ND.,  and
Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Scranton

01-01-16 to present- Assistant Dean to the Dickinson Deanery (5-year term)

July 1st 2017 Tri-Parish Pastor  
St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church in Mott
St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in New Leipzig
St Henry's Catholic Church in Regent

Saint Stephen

Saint Stephen was one of the first ordained deacons of the church and the first Christian martyr. While working among the early Christians the apostles heard a complaint that their Greek speaking widows were being neglected during the distributions of alms. The twelve decided to appoint 7 deacons to oversee this distribution and ensure fairness. Of the 7 deacons, Stephen was the oldest and given the Archdeacon title. He was full of faith and the holy spirit. Stephens popularity created enemies among some Jews. Members of the synagogue of Roman freedmen entered a debate with Stephen, and accused him of blasphemy. Filled with wisdom Stephen won his debate. The Jews did not accept this outcome. Stephen was put on trial and several false witnesses were brought forward by the Sanhedrin to testify he was guilty of blasphemy . Stephen responded to these charges by detailing the history of Israel and outlining the blessings God had bestowed upon the nation. As Stephen concluded his defense, he looked up and saw a vision of Jesus standing at the right hand of God, he said, “Look, I can see heaven thrown open and the Son of man standing at the right hand of God.” The angry crowd rushed upon Stephen in disbelief and carried him outside the city to stone him. As Stephen  was stoned to death Stephen spoke his last words, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit, Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” Following these words, Stephen died. In 415, a priest claimed he had a vision of Stephens tomb and located his remains. The name inside the tomb confirmed Stephens identity, St. Stephen is often depicted with stones, the gospel book, a miniature church, and a martyrs palm frond. He is the patron Saint of bricklayers and deacons. His feast day is celebrated on December 26th.