23/04/2014
HAPPY ST GEORGE'S DAY EVERYONE
ST GEORGE AND THE DRAGON
In a far off land there was a town which was being plagued by a terrible dragon. Many armies had tried to kill the dragon but it beat them all with its awful fiery breath. The dragon was hungry and used to fly down and eat the townspeople.
“We will draw lots, and one person will be left out for the dragon to eat to stop him eating the whole town in one go.” the Chief decided. Everyone was included in the lot, rich and poor, young and old.
Then one day the Chief’s own daughter drew the marked card, and had to go out for the dragon.
“Please, please don’t send my daughter to the dragon,” begged the Chief. “I will give you gold, and jewels, and land if you spare her” he offered, but the townspeople remained firm. “If you do not spare her I will send you all to jail,” roared the frightened Chief so loudly that his noble daughter overheard him.
“Father, it would not be right for me to be spared, when the lives of our citizens are at stake. Kiss me, and I will be able to face the darkness.”
The Chief knew she was right, and gave her a long embrace before walking with her to the town gate whilst his heart was breaking.
Not far away in a neighbouring city there lived a young Christian knight called George. He had a vision that he must go on a journey so he got on his horse and started out. Before long he found the Chief’s daughter quietly crying outside the dragon’s lair.
“Don’t stop sir, a terrible dragon lives here, and he will eat you if he finds you.” she said when she saw him.
“Why are you here?” asked George.
“To prevent the dragon from eating all my people.” said the princess sadly.
George knew it was up to him to save the brave girl, and declared “As God is my witness, I will protect you.”
Just then the dragon swooped down out of the mountains, breathing fire and looking very hungry. “Feed me”, it roared as it swooped towards the pair. George crossed his heart, set his spear in his saddle, and stabbed the dragon through its dreadful belly. With a burst of flame the dragon roared once then fell to earth stone dead.
The girl immediately fell to her knees in thanks for being saved. When Saint George lifted her up she led him back to the town and he taught them all about the faith which had given him the strength and courage to fight the dragon.
