The Saints: St. George

C. third-fourth century

Feast – April 23

Veneration of this soldier-saint was widespread from early times, but his actual history remains unknown. One story claims he was martyred in Palestine around 303. Legends of St. George, including his chivalrous rescue of a maiden by slaying a dragon, date from the later Middle Ages, and probably were carried to Western Europe by returning Crusaders. Another legend of this patron of England and of soldiers says he was tortured and beheaded for his Christian faith during the persecution of Roman Emperor Diocletian.