Legend has it that St. George slew a dragon, saving the King's daughter from becoming a living sacrifice.

On this day (April 23) in 303 A.D., St. George the Great Martyr was beheaded for his faith in Christ.

St. George was born into a devout Christian family during a time of severe persecution. He gave his wealth to the poor and, under the reign of Emperor Diocletian, was tortured for being a Christian. But he persevered until the end.

A myth about St. George slaying a dragon comes to us from the 11th and 12th centuries. It is said that a fearsome dragon held an entire city in fear. Each year, in order to appease the dragon, the people cast lots and an unfortunate young girl was offered as a living sacrifice. This particular year, the lot fell on the King's daughter. She was bound and set out for the dragon.

Then, out of nowhere, St. George appeared on a white horse. He slew the dragon and bound him with a leash, giving it to the princess.

St. George has been recognized as the patron of many communities and churches in both the East and the West.

A blessed feast of St. George to you! St. George, pray for us!

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