Latest news with #SaintGeorge
Arab News
19-07-2025
- Politics
- Arab News
US envoy urges accountability for church attack in West Bank village
TAYBEH, Palestinian Territories: The US ambassador to Israel on Saturday visited a Christian village in the occupied West Bank and urged accountability for an attack on an ancient church, which residents have blamed on Israeli settlers. In early July, the village of Taybeh was hit by an arson attack in the area of the ruins of the Byzantine-era Church of Saint George, which dates back to the fifth century. Residents blamed settlers for the assault, which comes as violence soars in the West Bank and last week saw an American-Palestinian man killed near Ramallah. Ambassador Mike Huckabee, an evangelical Christian and staunch advocate for Israel, said his trip to Taybeh aimed to 'express solidarity with the people who just want to live their lives in peace, to be able to go to their own land, to be able to go to their place of worship.' 'It doesn't matter whether it's a mosque, a church, a synagogue,' he told journalists. 'It's unacceptable to commit an act of sacrilege by desecrating a place that is supposed to be a place of worship.' 'We will certainly insist that those who carry out acts of terror and violence in Taybeh or anywhere be found, be prosecuted, not just reprimanded. That's not enough,' he said. 'People need to pay a price for doing something that destroys that which belongs not just to other people, but that which belongs to God.' In the villages and communities around Taybeh, Palestinian authorities reported that settlers had killed three people and damaged or destroyed multiple water sources in the past two weeks alone. Israel has occupied the West Bank since 1967 and violence has surged in the territory since the Hamas attack of October 7, 2023 triggered the Gaza war. Since then, Israeli troops or settlers have killed at least 957 Palestinians, including many militants, in the West Bank, according to health ministry figures. Over the same period, at least 36 Israelis, including soldiers, have been killed in Palestinian attacks or during Israeli military operations, according to official figures. Huckabee, who has for years been an outspoken supporter of Jewish settlement in the Palestinian territories, on Tuesday demanded an aggressive investigation and consequences after settlers beat to death a Palestinian-American in the West Bank. It was a sign of rare public pressure against US ally Israel by President Donald Trump's administration.
Malay Mail
08-07-2025
- General
- Malay Mail
Mitre by mitre: How North Macedonian nuns are stitching priceless holy headwear for bishops worldwide
SKOPJE, July 9 — In total silence, Sister Elisaveta stitched the sacred headwear for which her monastery in North Macedonia is renowned throughout the Orthodox world. In her careful hands, the mitre glimmered as if spun from gold. The bulbous silk crown, now repaired, was again fit for a bishop. Nestled between mountains and overlooking a placid lake about 130 kilometres (80 miles) west of Skopje, Saint George the Victorious monastery produces unique headdresses worn by patriarchs around the world. 'We are the only one in the world that works with this type of mitre,' Sister Efimija told AFP, referring to her workshop of 10 nuns. Sewing secrets The sisters work as a team, helped by two novices, each nun perfecting a particular part of the technique. Christian Orthodox nuns Efimija (L) and Elisaveta (R) work on a mitre, a liturgical vestment, in the monastery of Saint George the Victorious situated in the village of Rajcica, some 132 kilometers west of capital Skopje, North Macedonia. — AFP pic 'Each of the sisters has her own assignment in the process,' Efimija said, as she watched a colleague make the final touches to her repair work. Some elements of the handmade production are so secret they are known to only a small number of nuns, the 44-year-old said. Originally a home to monks, the monastery was shut by the communist government after World War II and turned into stables. But since it reopened as a convent in 2001, its Christian Orthodox nuns have fashioned 1,700 incredibly detailed mitres, Efimija said. Although mitres are worn by the Catholic pope, and by bishops and some abbots from several Christian denominations, those made at Saint George are reserved for higher-ranking priests in the Christian Orthodox Church. Exceptionally, the nuns crafted a special headdress for the late pope Francis, which took five months to finish. It was gifted to Francis by a North Macedonia state delegation to the Vatican in 2016. He was 'pleasantly surprised', Efimija said with pride. 'Priceless' Decorated with vibrant colours, gold embroidery and jewels, every mitre weighs between one and two kilograms (2.2 and 4.4 pounds). They take at least four weeks to produce. Some need six months to complete. Decorated with vibrant colours, gold embroidery and jewels, every mitre weighs between one and two kilograms (2.2 and 4.4 pounds). — AFP pic According to Sister Efimija, the Saint George mitres follow the lavish style of the late Byzantine Empire. But her workshop, with its secret techniques, adds a unique flair. Despite its opulence, the mitre symbolises the crown of thorns that Christians believe was placed on Christ's head during the crucifixion and Sister Efimija said she hoped each would bring humility to its wearer. 'If the bishop wears such a priceless object on his head and does not feel the burden of torments borne by contemporary man, then he wears the mitre in vain', she said. — AFP
Hindustan Times
23-04-2025
- General
- Hindustan Times
Why is St. George's Day celebrated? Church of England moves feast to next week
St. George's Day is a feast day that holds great significance in England. It is typically celebrated every year on April 23 in honour of the country's patron saint. However, things are a little different this year as the Church of England has moved the feast to next week. The reason behind the shock shift in the date is a unique rule followed by the Anglican Church. While the feast for St. George's Day is held on the 23rd of April, the traditionally accepted date of Saint George's death, this year it has been moved to Monday, April 28. A Church of England rule dictates that a saint's day cannot fall within a week before or after Easter, which was observed on April 20 this year. A note issued by the Church of England, according to The Express, reads, 'When St George's Day or St Mark's Day falls between Palm Sunday and the Second Sunday of Easter inclusive it is transferred to the Monday after the Second Sunday of Easter. If both fall in this period, St George's Day is transferred to the Monday and St Mark's Day to the Tuesday.' The origin of St. George's Day dates back to as early as the 9th Century, according to The Sun. However, modern understandings are based on 11th and 12th Century versions of the story behind the revered saint. In the tale, which is focused on a village in Cappadocia, Turkey (changed to Libya in some versions), villagers offer their princess to a hungry dragon when they run out of sheep. However, the mythical creature was slain by Saint George, who rescued the princess. The saint's bravery solidified his position as England's patron saint. The country has observed St. George's Day as a national holiday since the 15th Century. Some of the most important and common traditions on this day are Morris dancing, Medieval and Renaissance fairs, and displays of dragons.
Time of India
23-04-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
Rishi Sunak wishes St George's Day: All you need to know the day's significance
Rishi Sunak is proudly celebrating St George's Day . The former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom and a Member of Parliament of the UK took to social media to share his wish on St George's Day . Sunak, who was born in Southampton to parents of Indian descent who immigrated to Britain from East Africa in the 1960s, wrote on X (formerly Twitter), 'Proud to be English! Happy St George's Day!' What is St George's Day? by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Invest $200 in Amazon without buying stocks to earn a second salary Marketsall Sign Up Undo Saint George 's Day is the feast day of Saint George, celebrated by Christian churches, countries, regions, and cities of which he is the patron saint, including England, Albania, Bulgaria, Ethiopia, Greece, Georgia, Portugal, Romania, Syria, Palestine, Lebanon, Castile and León, Catalonia, Alcoi, Aragon, Genoa, and Rio de Janeiro. Saint George's Day is celebrated on 23 April, the traditionally accepted date of the saint's death in the Diocletianic Persecution. What is the St George's Cross? The St George's Cross is a red cross on a white background, and it's a Christian symbol strongly associated with Saint George, a military saint. It's most famously known as the flag of England. The cross has been used as a symbol on flags and banners since the Middle Ages, particularly during the Crusades. Symbolism: The red St George's Cross on a white background is a visual representation of the Christian faith and is often associated with the blood of martyrs. It is the national flag of England and is used to symbolize England's identity, history, and values. Patron saint: Saint George is considered the patron saint of England , and the cross became a symbol of the country, particularly after the English Reformation. Significance of the St George's Cross: Historical significance: The St George's Cross has historical roots, with its use dating back to the 13th century. It represents Saint George, England, Genoa, Sardinia, and Georgia, as well as Christianity and the Crusades. In England, it became a prominent symbol associated with the English monarchy and military, particularly after the 13th century. English symbol: The cross was adopted by England in 1190 for ships entering the Mediterranean to gain protection from the Genoese fleet. It became a symbol of the English monarchy and military, with records indicating its use by soldiers in the 1270s. Military distinction: In the 13th century, it was used as a distinguishing mark on uniforms, particularly during the reign of King Edward I. Royal symbol: Accounts from 1277 mention the use of cloth for the king's tailor to manufacture "the arms of Saint George" for soldiers, indicating its importance as a royal symbol. Modern significance: In modern times, the St George's Cross continues to be a powerful symbol of English pride , patriotism, and national identity, especially during sporting events and in discussions related to Britain's place in the world. The flag is heavily displayed during sporting events in which England competes, including cricket, rugby, and football matches. Significance of St George's Day: Celebrated annually on April 23rd, St George's Day is a national day in England commemorating the patron saint of the country. It is a day to honor the legend of Saint George, particularly the story of him slaying a dragon, and to celebrate English identity. The day is marked with various traditions, including parades, religious services, and celebrations, featuring the iconic St George's Cross flag. It is a national holiday in England, and the traditions include parading with St George's cross flag, wearing a red rose, and enjoying traditional English food . Many towns and cities host parades featuring St. George's cross flags, traditional costumes, and music. Some areas organize festivals with food stalls, live music, and other festive activities. St George's Day is often marked by parades and festivals that bring communities together, featuring traditional music, dancing, and performances. Amy Jackson shows off her baby bump in a blue bikini
Time of India
22-04-2025
- General
- Time of India
Is St George's Day a public holiday in the UK? Know all about the dragon slayer Patron Saint
Observed every year on April 23 , St George's Day is marked to honour Saint George, the patron saint of England . Morris dancing, the red cross on flags, and performances of knights who once slayed a dragon are among the traditional English festivities that are held to honour the day. While the imagery is iconic, many in England are not sure of who St George truly was or why he is celebrated. If you are among those, read on. Who was St George? Born about 270 AD in Cappadocia (now in Türkiye), St. George was a Roman Empire soldier and Christian. The Chronicle contends that he was killed in 303 AD for defying Emperor Diocletian's order to renounce his Christian faith during an era of persecution. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Google Brain Co-Founder Breaks His Silence: Read These 5 Books And Turn Your Life Around Blinkist: Andrew Ng's Reading List Undo Reportedly, despite the lack of concrete historical records, his story has endured. It was further strengthened by myth, faith, and legend. Also Read : US weather forecast: Tornado, large hail, heavy rain alert for Texas, Kansas, New Mexico, other states Live Events The dragon-slaying legend According to the reports, the most enduring story around St George is the dramatic tale of the slaying of a dragon. Legend states a dragon was tormenting a village and they had chosen to offer a maid to it. However, St George killed the dragon and rescued the settlement, the analysis noted. Although the tale is symbolic, it represents the victory of good over evil. It became wildly popular through The Golden Legend, a medieval collection of saints' stories. Why is St George England's Patron Saint? Ironically, St George never set foot in England. However, the reports stated that his qualities of courage, chivalry , and piety made him an appropriate icon. He was an icon for those looking to unify ideals, especially in times of war like the Crusades . Is St George's Day a public holiday in the UK? After the accounts of St George appearing to Crusaders in combat, he was named as a national icon. Reportedly, in 1415, his feast day became a national holiday. However, this status was lost after the 18th Century. Also Read : Dick Van Dyke, wife Arlene Silver proud of their relationship despite 46-year age gap His appeal also rested on the fact that he was not a representative of any single English region, so he could be a unifying figure for the whole nation, the reports added. St George is England's hero, but he is more than that. He is the patron saint of Catalonia, Georgia, Greece, Portugal, and a few other areas. His historical and mythological legacy continues to motivate individuals all over the globe. FAQs Q: Is St George's Day a public holiday in England? No, it is not a public holiday, even though it used to be recognised as a national feast day back in 1415. Q: Did St George really slay a dragon? There is no historical proof of an actual dragon. The tale is thought to be a symbolic story about bravery and the victory of good over evil.
