Our Patron Saints: Saint Demetrios - Saint Catherine - Saint George

Our Patron Saints: Witnesses of Faith, Courage, and Wisdom

Honoring Saint Demetrios, Saint Catherine, and Saint George

The Hellenic Orthodox Community of Astoria is uniquely blessed to be under the spiritual protection and intercession of three great Saints of the Orthodox Church: Saint Demetrios the Myrrh-streamer, Saint Catherine the Great Martyr, and Saint George the Trophy-bearer. These holy men and women are more than historical figures; they are living examples of Christ-centered faith, whose lives continue to inspire, guide, and protect us.

 

Saint Demetrios the Myrrh-streamer (October 26)

Saint Demetrios of Thessaloniki was a third-century martyr, soldier, and preacher of the Gospel. A high-ranking officer in the Roman army, he courageously confessed his faith in Christ at a time when Christianity was persecuted.

While imprisoned for his beliefs, Saint Demetrios continued to evangelize, strengthening the hearts of other Christians. He was eventually martyred around 306 A.D., and his tomb in Thessaloniki began to flow with fragrant myrrh, a miraculous sign of his sanctity.

Saint Demetrios teaches us the power of courage, humility, and unwavering faith in the face of worldly power.

As the patron of our principal parish and school, Saint Demetrios is a constant reminder that faith, sacrifice, and truth are the cornerstones of Christian life and education.

Apolytikion in the Third Tone

All the world has you, its mighty champion, * fortifying us in times of danger, * and defeating our foes, O Victorious One. * So, as you humbled Lyaios’s arrogance * by giving courage to Nestor in the stadium, * thus, O holy Great-martyr Demetrios, * to Christ our God pray fervently, * beseeching Him to grant us His great mercy.

Saint Catherine the Great Martyr (November 25)

Saint Catherine of Alexandria was a brilliant scholar, philosopher, and princess who lived during the early 4th century. Gifted with wisdom and beauty, she boldly confronted Emperor Maxentius, defending the truth of Christ in public debate against the greatest pagan philosophers of her time. Her eloquence and conviction led to the conversion of many, including members of the imperial court.

After enduring torture and imprisonment, she was martyred for her faith. Her relics were later miraculously transported to Mount Sinai, where they rest to this day in the Monastery of Saint Catherine.

Saint Catherine inspires us to unite faith with reason, to seek divine wisdom, and to bear witness to the Gospel with boldness and clarity.

She is the patroness of our second church in Astoria, reminding us of the vital role of education, prayer, and integrity in every generation.

Apolytikion in the Pl. First Tone

Let us praise and extol the all-lauded Bride of Christ,* the Protectress of Sinai, divine Saint Catherine,* as the one who gives aid and her assistance to us;* for she brilliantly suppressed the impious orators,* with the sword of the Spirit.* And being crowned as a martyr,* she asks that all receive the great mercy.

Saint George the Great Martyr and Trophy-bearer (April 23)

Saint George, one of the most beloved saints in Christendom, was a Roman officer who gave up his military honors to become a fearless witness for Christ. Arrested and tortured for refusing to offer sacrifice to pagan gods, Saint George remained steadfast in faith, enduring great suffering before his martyrdom.

He is often depicted slaying a dragon—a symbol of triumph over evil through the power of Christ.

Saint George teaches us that true victory is not in worldly strength, but in the courage to live and die for Christ.

As a co-patron of our parish alongside Saint Catherine, he stands as a protector of the faithful and an example of how bravery, holiness, and love for Christ can conquer every trial.

Apolytikion in the Fourth Tone

As the one renowned for setting captives free and for defending those in poverty, the physician of the sick and the champion of emperors, great and victorious Martyr George, intercede with Christ our God, beseeching Him to save our souls.

Why Patron Saints Matter

These three saints embody the heart of Orthodox Christian life:

• Faith (Saint Demetrios)

• Wisdom (Saint Catherine)

• Courage (Saint George)

Their lives are not distant legends, but living legacies that continue to shape our worship, education, and ministry. We invoke their intercessions in our churches, our schools, and in our personal prayers, trusting in their heavenly protection and example.

Living Under Their Protection

At the Hellenic Orthodox Community of Astoria, we strive to live out the virtues of our patron saints:

• In our liturgical life, through vibrant worship and sacramental participation.

• In our educational mission, by forming students who are both faithful and thoughtful.

• In our community outreach, by fostering courage, compassion, and witness in the world.

May Saint Demetrios, Saint Catherine, and Saint George continue to guide, inspire, and intercede for our entire community.

 

Sources

The Life of Saint Demetrios from the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America website: https://www.goarch.org/chapel/saints?contentid=257

The Life of Saint Catherine from the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America website: https://www.goarch.org/chapel/saints?contentid=307

The Life of Saint George from the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America website: https://www.goarch.org/chapel/saints?contentid=29