England wants St Georges Day as public holiday

A new survey reveals that the English public is behind calls by the Archbishop of York that St Georges Day be to be celebrated as a public holiday.

The survey conducted by ComRes, and commissioned by Premier Christian Media, reveals that 64% of people in England are in favour of St Georges Day being a Bank Holiday in England. Christians were particularly positive (71%) for the Public Holiday.

According to tradition, St George was a Roman soldier from Syria Palaestina and a priest in the Guard of Diocletian. Diocletian is said to have been one of the most bloodthirsty of Roman Emperors. St George was venerated as a Christian martyr because he refused to renouce his faith in God and as a follower of Christ - in a time where Christians where killed for their beliefs.

Although, this year St George’s Day falls in Holy Week, on 23rd April - the Archbishop, Dr John Sentamu has written to Government ministers calling on them to hold official celebrations on 2nd May. He has been encouraging people to put up their St George’s crosses and celebrate England’s heritage.

 “As someone who loves St George, I have long campaigned for us to have a special holiday where we can celebrate our patron saint and all that is great about our wonderful nation.” he said.

Peter Kerridge, CEO of Premier Christian Media said on the survey: “St Georges Day should offer people the chance celebrate all that is quintessentially of English, as well as educating people about who St George really was and what he stood for; Christian faith and integrity.”

Source: Premier Radio