East London News A Force for the community…
THIS IS THE day on which England remembers its rather inappropriate patron saint. The date was chosen because it is alleged to be the date on which George died – in the year 303AD, when parish records were not what they are today. The death arose because George refused to give up his Christian faith. The need to give it up arose because he was an elite soldier – had he not been a member of Emperor Diocletian’s Pretorian Guard, which he was, probably no one much would have minded which deity he worshipped.
Let’s face it: none of these issues would be on the list of “essential qualities” if England were choosing a patron saint today. Nonetheless, during the month of peace, let us remember how deep the cult of war is buried in the English psyche. It’s no wonder the various English fascist parties have tried to appropriate Saint George’s flag for their own cause.
In April, we remember the anti-nuclear weapons Aldermaston march: our “Thoughts” this month will concentrate on aspects of peace.
•Read more about it:
Thought for today
The Thames Today
