Wednesday, April 13, 2011

St George


St. George is the patron saint of Ethiopia, as well as England. Vivi's grandma, who was born in England, used to talk about the story of St. George and somehow over the years our family has grown an attachment to this Saint.



So when Mawerdi's grandma came to visit we decided that we must visit the St. George Cathedral. The cathedral was commissioned by Emperor Menelik to celebrate his defeat of the Italians in 1896, with the St. George icon being carried into this battle in Adwa. The cathedral was completed in 1911. Both Emperor Selassie and Empress Zewditu were crowned here. The octagonal cathedral is neoclassical in style with an interior containing murals and a stunning blue ceiling with gold stars. The priest demonstrated various chants and prayers, which Mawerdi loved!

Mural of St. George defeating the dragon

Candles used for night services


Another wonderful family outing together in Ethiopia, although we will eventually leave this amazing place the culture, history and people will always remain in our hearts and home!

Vivi's great grandfather's statue of St. George
“The price of Liberty is eternal vigilance and the price of wisdom is eternal thought”
 ~ Frank Birch

1 comment:

  1. St. George does indeed have a special place in our hearts. We all need that feeling that somewhere there is a grand and glorious knight who will do battle to protect us from evil. The murals in that church were truly amazing. Churches are such a physical reflection of beauty, faith, courage and triumph that one is inspired without fail. I was inspired by those church buildings as well as being inspired by the family that you are building with each day that you are together. Keep building stone by stone, day by day, thought followed by action to embrace the beautiful happy family you are.

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