George, a truly great and glorious Martyr of Christ, was born of a father from Cappadocia and a mother from Palestine. Being a military tribune, or a chilliarch (that is, a commander of a thousand troops), he was illustrious in battle and highly honored for his courage. When he learned that Emperor Diocletian was preparing a to persecute Christians, Saint George presented himself publicly before the Emperor and denounced him. When threats and promises could not move him from his steadfast confession, he was put to unheard-of tortures, which he endured with great bravery, overcoming him by his faith and love towards Christ. By the wondrous signs that took place in his contest, he guided many to the knowledge of the truth, including Queen Alexandra, wife of Diocletian, and was finally beheaded in 296 in Nicomedia. His sacred remains were taken by his servant from Nicomedia to Palestine, to a town called Lydda, the homeland of his mother, and then finally transferred to the church which was raised up in his name. St. George’s Feast Day is celebrated on April 23; the translation of the Saint’s holy relics to the church in Lydda is commemorated November 3; Saint Alexandra the Queen, on April 21.

[Taken from The Great Horologion (Book of Hours), Holy Transfiguration Monastery, Boston, MA]