What was the relationship between Stephen and Jesus?
Before he died, Stephen saw Jesus at the right hand of God. He asked him to receive his spirit, and he prayed for those who were stoning him. Acts 7:55-60
What the Bible says
Acts 7:55
But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looking up steadfastly to heaven, saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God. And he said: Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God.
Acts 7:59
And they stoned Stephen, invoking, and saying: Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.
Acts 7:60
And falling on his knees, he cried with a loud voice, saying: Lord, lay not this sin to their charge. And when he had said this, he fell asleep in the Lord. And Saul was consenting to his death.
Douay-Rheims Bible (Challoner revision), public domain.
What the Church teaches
The Catechism recalls that Stephen prayed for his executioners, as Jesus did.
Catechism 2635 · Catechism of the Catholic Church
Did you know?
On the cross, Jesus also prayed for those who crucified him, and commended his spirit to the Father. Luke 23:34, 46