Ahead of St George's Day on 23 April, Zara Rawlinson, Racial Justice Officer for the Diocese introduces a new set of resources that are available to help churches celebrate the day.
St George’s Day is often associated with English identity and national pride.
For some, it is a celebration. For others, it can feel more complex.
St George himself challenges many of the assumptions often attached to the day. He was not English, but born in Cappadocia (modern-day Turkey), a Roman soldier of Greek heritage, and a Christian who chose to stand against injustice, even at the cost of his life.
This matters because it reframes what St George’s Day can represent for the Church.
It is not primarily about nationality, but about courageous Christian witness; marked by courage, welcome and dignity.
St George’s story points us towards:
- Faith that is lived out, not just spoken
- Courage to stand for what is right
- A willingness to cross boundaries of culture and difference
- A commitment to dignity and justice
In today’s context, St George’s Day offers an opportunity not just to celebrate England, but to reflect on how we embody these values in our own communities.
This includes asking honest questions about:
- How welcome people feel in our churches
- Whether our words and actions reflect the love we proclaim
- How we respond to difference, disagreement, and change
Christian courage is not about defending comfort or drawing boundaries around who belongs.
It is about living with integrity, showing compassion, and standing for truth, even when it is difficult.
As we mark St George’s Day, we are invited to model a vision of the Church, and of England, that is confident, generous, and rooted in Christ.
If we say, “all are welcome”, but that is not everyone’s experience, then we are called to respond.
To help here are a few resources churches may wish to use:
- St George’s Day: Inclusion, Courage and Christian Witness
A short guide to help with tone, language and pastoral approach, particularly where the day may feel sensitive or complex
- St George’s Day: Practical Ways to Mark the Day
Simple, realistic ideas for worship, preaching, parish life and community engagement.
- A guide for Christians on how to have conversations about race, history and belonging
Practical support for navigating more difficult or challenging conversations
- Celebrating St George's Day - Church of England
Please use whatever is helpful in your context, and feel free to get in contact if you would like to talk anything through or need support: zara.rawlinson@rochester.anglican.org