Ever wondered how a small gathering in 1973 could blossom into the vibrant St George Coptic Orthodox Church we see today? In July 1973 the first Coptic Orthodox Liturgy was prayed in Kensington. This humble beginning marked the start of a flourishing community. It all began to serve the Coptic community in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs.
The late Pope Shenouda the 3rd guided the church. His blessings and prayers helped St George Coptic Orthodox Church grow. Today the church is part of the Diocese of Sydney and Affiliated Regions. HG Bishop Daniel provides guidance. Several clergy members lead the church. These include Fr Marcos Tawfik, Fr Rafael Iskander and Fr Matthew Attia. Also Fr Kyrillos Farag and Fr Michael Tanious serve here.
But who is Saint George himself? Saint George was born around 280 A.D. He came from Cappadocia. His family was Christian, wealthy and noble. George joined the Roman army. His skills led to quick promotions. The Emperor made him a tribune or officer in the Imperial Guard.
Emperor Diocletian ordered persecution against Christians in 303 A.D. He wanted all churches leveled and sacred books burned. George tore down the Emperor’s edict in the marketplace. He was arrested for this act of courage. Diocletian tried to seduce George. He promised him a higher position. George refused and faced torture.
Legends say Diocletian arranged for a beautiful woman to tempt George in prison. Instead, she converted to Christianity. She was executed for her faith. George endured terrible suffering. His body was torn. Hot oil was poured on him. Yet, he survived through faith.
Ultimately, George was invited to the Emperor’s palace. The Emperor wanted him to sacrifice to idols. George refused. He preached to Empress Alexandra about Jesus Christ. The idols fell when George stretched his hands to Heaven. Many converted to Christianity. The Emperor executed them all.
Saint George was buried in Lydda, Palestine. King Constantine, who took over after Diocletian, ordered a church built over his grave. Copts call him \”The Prince of Martyrs.\” They built over 200 churches named after him in Egypt.
The most famous legend tells of St George’s fight with a dragon. The dragon terrorized Salone in Libya. It ate the country folk. It even poisoned people with its breath. To appease the beast, the town sacrificed two sheep daily. When they ran out of sheep they sacrificed one child every day.
One day, the king’s daughter, Sabra, was chosen. George appeared on his white horse. He vowed to save her. George fought the dragon. He wounded it with his lance. Then he and Sabra dragged the dragon to town. George cut off its head. The town converted to Christianity.
This story represents St. George defeating the devil. He defeated the dragon by the Cross. The princess represents the Holy Mother Church. Saint George defended her. The icon of St George shows him defeating the devil. The princess represents the Church. St George’s story continues to inspire. His courage and faith resonate even today here at St George Coptic Orthodox Church. Remember his bravery.