Patron Saint

St George is said to have been born in the 3rd century somewhere in Asia Minor – probably in today’s Lebanon . We do not know much about the real life of him. The legend of St George was first told in England by crusaders returning from the Holy Land . The legend told of a terrible dragon that ravaged the country side. Each day people had to sacrifice some one for it, and finally it was the turn of the king’s daughter to be sacrificed. The entire country was very sad and frightened. At that time George came forward on a horse and fought against the dragon and killed it piercing its chest with his spear. George told the people that he could do it only because of the help he had from Jesus Christ. A large number of people became Christians.

When King Edward 111th of England heard about St George, he accepted him as patron saint of England . His photograph sitting on a horse holding a spear and killing the dragon was very impressive to the king. He looked very strong and powerful. It went along with English culture. Most of the other saints were thin and emaciated and physically weak people.

Malankara Orthodox Church heard about St George long before English people heard about him. The people who knew St George thought that he had a pure heart (nirmala hredayan). Yet he had many enemies. They captured him as a prisoner, and brought forward false charges against hi. He was in prison for seven years. He was tortured him very badly. For example, his body was tied to a wheel, and put his body up side down in the wheel. Then they rotated the wheel over fire. His body was burned, but he did not curse the people who tortured him, or argue with them. His case was heard by 72 judges during a period of seven years. Holy Spirit gave him the courage to face the situation, and he could over come his enemies. Our people accepted St George as a saint. Many churches were built in India in his name. Our people were very happy to give the name George to their male children. Even Parumala Thirumeny, H.H.Geevarughese 2nd Catholicose were very fond of their name Geevarughese which meant George. They actively encouraged people to seek the intercession of St George especially when had very difficult time in their life.

Sheffield St.George Indian orthodox church, the only Parish which we have in the name of St.George in whole of Yorkshire. Our church is growing very fast by the blessings of St George and it will continue to grow more and more. Let us pray,”St Greorge, pray for us”