Who Was St. George?

In 303 AD, St. George faced a great challenge. Some believe at age 23, he returned to Lydda and found Emperor Diocletian persecuting Christians. Diocletian demanded all worship pagan idols, but George’s faith, shaped by his family, stood firm. Tradition says he traveled to the imperial court, perhaps in Nicomedia, where Diocletian ruled with many leaders.

With courage, George boldly proclaimed his faith in Christ, refusing to honor idols. Some say he tore the emperor’s edict, declaring Christians should be free. Diocletian offered riches to sway him, but George stayed loyal to Christ. Some believe rulers mocked him, challenging him to prove his God's power. “Make our wooden thrones sprout leaves,” they demanded. George prayed, and to their astonishment, the chairs burst forth with green shoots and fruit—a sign of divine favor that left them speechless.

Undeterred, the emperor and his council escalated their test. They led George to a cemetery, ordering him to raise the dead. With unwavering faith, he lifted his voice in prayer, and the graves opened. The departed rose, spoke with the onlookers, and then returned to rest—a miracle echoing Christ’s own power. Diocletian grew angry, but George remained calm, trusting God. His bold stand was a witness to Christ, inspiring awe and faith in some. This marked the start of his martyrdom, leading to his victory in heaven.