FaithMarks for April 23, 2025

Today, April 23, many Christians remember St. George, the Christian soldier who stood for Christ under pressure—and paid the ultimate price. Who was he really? Let’s explore the true story behind the legend.

St. George was a Roman soldier in the late 3rd century under Emperor Diocletian. But he was also a devout Christian—and that put him on a collision course with the empire’s brutal persecution of the Church.

When Diocletian ordered all soldiers to renounce Christianity, George refused. Boldly. Publicly. And without hesitation. His faith cost him everything. He was tortured and beheaded on April 23, AD 303.

But death didn’t end George’s story. Christians remembered his courage, and his legend grew—especially in the Eastern Orthodox Church. By the 5th century, he was venerated as a saint and martyr throughout Christendom.

What about the dragon story? That came later—symbolizing the triumph of Christian courage over evil. In medieval Europe, St. George became the patron saint of knights, crusaders, and eventually nations—like England.

Behind the myth is a man who loved Jesus more than life itself. On this day, may we remember St. George not just as a dragon-slayer, but as a faithful witness who stood firm for Christ.

“Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life.” (Revelation 2:10)