George was born to a wealthy and noble Christian family in Lydda (LOD), Palestine, Syria during the late third century between 275 AD and 285 AD. His father, Gerontius, was a Roman army official from Cappadocia and his mother was from Palestine. Their child was raised with Christian beliefs. They decided to call him Georgius (Latin) or Geyrgios (Greek), Meaning “worker of the land.” At the age of 14, George lost his father; and a few years later, George’s mother, Polychronia, died. The names of his parents as Anastasius and Theobaste.

   George decided to go to Nicomedia, the imperial city of that time, and joined the Roman army, where his ability and charm brought him quick promotion. The Emperor heard about him and as a result made him a tribune or an officer in the Imperial Guard. So he was a soldier in the army of Diocletian, a pagan emperor.

    Saint George was one of the Diocletian’s favorite soldiers, but he objected and with the courage of his faith approached the Emperor and ruler. Diocletian was upset, not wanting to lose his best Tribune and the son of his best official, Gerontuis. Before standing in front of the Emperor St. George gave his wealth to the poor and prepared himself to death. Because of his faith George was arrested and brought to the presence of Diocletian.

   We all have some “dragon” we have to conquer. It might be selfishness or anger. It might be laziness or greed, or something else. We can ask St. George to help us fight against these “dragons.” He will help us if we ask.

May his prayer be with us.