St. George and Friends

In 1896, Emperor Menelik II faced Italian invaders at the Battle of Adwa, now celebrated on Yekatit 23 as a national holiday. Tradition says St. George, Ethiopia’s patron, rode forth in the sky, shining with God’s light. Through his intercession, God led the army to victory, saving Ethiopia’s freedom. This miracle is painted in 19th-century EOTC icons, kept in places like St. George’s Cathedral, and sung by debtera cantors in Ge'ez hymns.

This triumph made St. George “Protector of Ethiopia,” a title prayed in EOTC feasts. His care, through Christ’s power, shields the nation. For Orthodox children, this story shows how St. George’s prayers help God’s people, uniting heaven and earth in faith.