On April 23, England proudly celebrates St. George’s Day, honoring our patron saint, a timeless symbol of the true English spirit. St. George, whose legendary courage and unyielding resolve echo through the ages, is more than a saint—he is the heartbeat of Englishness, a figure who inspires fierce national pride.
Born in the late 3rd century in Cappadocia (modern-day Turkey), George was a man of Greek heritage, raised in a devout Christian family under Roman rule. As a bold Roman officer, he embodied valor and loyalty, rising to prominence only to face a defining test. When Emperor Diocletian demanded Christians renounce their faith, George stood defiant, sacrificing his life around 303 AD for his beliefs. His martyrdom forged a legacy of unbreakable conviction, a trait England holds dear.
The iconic tale of St. George slaying the dragon—saving a princess and vanquishing evil—captures the essence of England’s resolute character. This story, embraced in the medieval era, saw George crowned England’s patron saint by King Edward III in the 14th century. His red cross, bold and unyielding, adorns our flags, woven into the Union Jack as a testament to English resilience.
St. George, though Cappadocian by birth, is the ultimate embodiment of England’s indomitable spirit—courageous, honorable, and fiercely protective of what is right. Tomorrow, as we raise our flags and revel in parades, let us celebrate St. George as the eternal champion of our proud English identity.
With St George in our hearts we keep fighting.
As does the lion of Luton.
