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George the Confessor

Saint George the Confessor, Bishop of Mitylene, lived during the iconoclastic period. His memory is celebrated on April 7.

Life

The righteous George was born into a faithful family. From a young age, he was distinguished by his piety, humility, and charity. These virtues were recognised by the faithful, and he was ordained and eventually elected to the episcopacy and appointed as Bishop of Mitylene.

As a bishop he was well regarded by the faithful for his virtuous life, his charity and his enlightening teaching. He dedicated himself to supporting his flock and winning back those who had been led astray by the iconoclasts. His efforts were crowned with success, and when he gave up his spirit in 821, his flock mourned him deeply.

During the reign of Patriarch Methodius, the translation of many relics of saints who died in exile was undertaken. These saints included Theophylactus of Nicomedia, Theodore the Studite and Nicephorus I of Constantinople.

The place of Saint George’s burial was at “Tria Kyparissia” (Three Cypresses, or Sari Baba) near the chapel of St. John the Forerunner. Between 846 and 847, the holy relics of the saint were translated in Mitylene with honours befitting the humble and saintly hierarch.

The memory of St. George the Confessor is honoured again on February 1 together with his brothers, Ss. Symeon the New Stylite and David the Monk.