St. George- Patron Saint of England.
A brief article can be read here. The growing cry for England and St George.
Who was Saint George?
(From the BBC)
The story of Saint George is so wrapped in myth and legend that it’s difficult to extract the historical facts of a real life. Some believe he never existed or that he’s a Christianised version of an older pagan myth.
In the early centuries of Christianity, followers would write up fabulous accounts of the lives of their heroes. This enhanced George’s reputation but left the details of his life very blurred.
Early life
What we believe to be the truth is that George was born in Cappadocia, an area which is now in Turkey, in the 3rd century; that his parents were Christians; and that when his father died, George’s mother returned to her native Palestine, taking George with her. George became a soldier in the Roman army and rose to the rank of Tribune.
Persecution of Christians
The Emperor of the day, Diocletian (245-313 AD), began a campaign against Christians at the very beginning of the 4th century. In about 303 AD George is said to have objected to this persecution and resigned his military post in protest.
Torture and martyrdom
George tore up the Emperor’s order against Christians. This infuriated Diocletian, and George was imprisoned and tortured – but he refused to deny his faith. Eventually he was dragged through the streets of Diospolis (now Lydda) in Palestine and beheaded. It’s said that Diocletian’s wife was so impressed by George’s resilience that she became a Christian and that she too was executed for her faith.
1catholicsalmon 
reinkat
/ April 23, 2013Happy St. George Day to you, as well!
I find his “real” life story even more amazing. The courage and faith he showed are astounding in any era–but somehow seem even more remarkable in today’s culture and mores
1catholicsalmon
/ April 24, 2013Absolutely! I think the legend around him doesn’t actually do him justice at all.