site.btaBulgaria Honours Saint George, Patron of the Bulgarian Armed Forces

May 6 honours Saint George the Victorious, patron of Bulgaria’s Armed Forces and one of Christendom’s most revered warrior saints.

Born in Cappadocia, Asia Minor, during the reign of Emperor Diocletian (284-305 AD), George joins the Roman army as a teenager, rises swiftly to the rank of tribune and earns a reputation for courage and leadership. When Diocletian renews persecution of Christians, George openly professes his faith, frees his household slaves, distributes his wealth to the poor and appears before the imperial court in Nicomedia to defend Christianity.

Refusing repeated calls to renounce Christ, he endures brutal torture yet remains steadfast, telling his captors, “You will grow tired of tormenting me sooner than I will tire of being tormented by you.” Witnesses to his resolve convert on the spot. George is beheaded on April 23, 303, walking to the execution site with dignity.

Since the Middle Ages he stands as protector of soldiers and patron of numerous countries and cities with Christian traditions, while also earning respect in Islam.