Calgary regiment, church mark St. George’s Day
Members of the King’s Own Calgary Regiment and the congregation of St. Stephen’s Anglican Church gathered Sunday to commemorate an ancient military saint who continues to inspire both soldiers and citizens.
As part of the annual St. George’s Day parade, more than 50 members of the regiment and the cadets marched six blocks from Mewata Armoury to St. Stephen’s for a church service.
“St. George epitomizes the warrior fighting for truth and righteousness even at great personal peril,” said commanding officer Neil Maclaine.
Army reserve members joined the congregation for the morning church service, which included the singing of the national anthem and prayers for the families of the King’s Own Calgary Regiment.
During his sermon, Reverend Brian E. Pearson spoke about the legend of St. George, the dragon-slaying patron saint of England.
Citizens wearing their Sunday best joined pews of men and women dressed in green camouflage and traditional military uniforms as they listened to tales of the historic Roman soldier, renowned for his bravery.
Born in 270 AD, St. George became a soldier at the age of 17 and protested against Rome’s persecution of Christians.
Despite being tortured, he stood up for what he believed in and stayed true to his faith. The emperor ordered St. George beheaded in 303 AD because of his faith.
“Like St. George, we do our duty, but we don’t just do our duty,” said Pearson, during the sermon. “We do our duty, whatever it is, inflamed by the passion that’s in our hearts.”
After the service, Pearson said warfare is a part of being human, and if people are called into battle, in any area of their lives, they should follow in the footsteps of St. George.
“If you’re going to fight, fight with dignity and for the causes in your heart, not for the desire to harm,” Pearson said.
Captain Moses Pano said St. George was a “martyr who stood up for his faith” and he represents the relationship that soldiers have with God.
The King’s Own Calgary Regiment has a rich history in this city and it is important for the regiment to participate in celebrations like St. George’s Day, Maclaine said.
“We’re a part of the city and the city is part of us,” said Maclaine. “It’s good to keep that connection.”
The chapel at St. Stephen’s Church was built in 1952, with donations from the regiment, in memory of the regiment’s fallen soldiers.
As her three young children watched the regiment march back to Mewata Armoury after the church service, Danielle Heaton said soldiers are an important model of sacrifice.
“It’s good for (my children) to see the example of these guys willing to risk their lives for their country, for the people,” Heaton said.
“It’s a really good picture of what Jesus did, I think.”