It
was certainly of great import to the people to believe in
extraordinary feats of courage done in the name of God and for his kingdom! The
story of the slaying of the dragon by St. George is one such legend which
inspires belief. As the story goes, a dragon lived in a lake near Silena, in
Palestine. Whole armies had gone up against this fierce creature, and had gone
down in painful defeat.
Now the monster ate two sheep
each day; and when sheep became scarce, lots were drawn and local maidens were substituted
for the sheep. Into this country came St. George. Hearing the story on a day
when a princess was to be eaten, George crossed himself, rode to battle against
the serpent and killed it with a single blow with his lance. George then
spouted forth a magnificent sermon, and converted the locals. Given a large
reward by the king, George distributed it to the poor and then rode away.
Now due to his chivalrous
behavior, devotion to St. George became popular in Europe after the tenth
century. In the 15th century his feast day was as popular and
important as Christmas. The shrine of his relics in Palestine was a popular
point of pilgrimage for centuries. He is deemed one of the Fourteen Holy Helpers.
George was tortured and
beheaded around 304 in Palestine. He has a great number of patronages – all
having to do with strength and protection!
The gospel passage today
reminds us of the fruit of one who gives his entire life to God and his
Kingdom: great things happen and many are brought to faith! We thank St. George
for being such a disciple of Christ, and example to all the flock! Amen!
Alleluia!
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