Saint Andrew

St Andrew History

The Observance of Saint Andrew is a day dedicated to commemorating the patron saint of Scotland. The purpose of this day is to celebrate Saint Andrew's life, teachings, and contributions and pay tribute to the cultural, religious, and historical ties between Scotland and various other countries. Special events, parades, and ceremonies occur throughout the United Kingdom to mark the occasion, emphasizing the importance of unity, strength, and loyalty among the communities.

Saint Andrew was one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ, known for his humble nature and devotion to his followers. He is believed to have been crucified on an X-shaped cross, which is now famously known as the Saint Andrew's Cross and is featured on Scotland's national flag. The connection between Saint Andrew and the people of the United Kingdom dates back to the ninth century when he was adopted as Scotland's patron saint. It is said that Saint Andrew's relics were brought to Scotland, and a church was built in his honor, which is now the ancient town of St Andrews. As a result, Saint Andrew became a symbol of Scottish identity, culture, and pride.

The Observance of Saint Andrew in the United Kingdom is generally marked by attending church services, participating in community events, and engaging in charitable acts. Traditional Scottish music, dancing, and cuisine are also enjoyed during the celebrations. The event aims to foster community, pride, and unity amongst the Scottish people and their British counterparts. Saint Andrew's Day, the feast day of Saint Andrew, is observed on the 30th of November every year in the United Kingdom, signifying the official start of the British winter festive season.

Saint Andrew facts

• Andrew was reportedly martyred on November 30 in the year 60 A.D by a Roman governor's order in Achaia (Greece). He was crucified and bound to the cross to increase his suffering. The cross was tilted to create an "x," which is known today as St. Andrew's cross and is the basis for the Scottish flag.
  
• The Feast of St. Andrew is the last holiday of the Christian year. It is held the day before Advent begins, November 30 in Roman Catholic and some Protestant churches. St. Andrew's Day is a holiday in Scotland that honors the disciple as the country's patron saint.
• Founded in 1413, the University of St. Andrews is the oldest university in Scotland and the third oldest in the English-speaking world. It is renowned for its excellent academia and historic significance, with a connection to Saint Andrew through the town's legacy.
• The national flag of Scotland, the Saltire or Saint Andrew’s Cross, is a white diagonal cross on a blue background. It is said to be inspired by the appearance of the sky during the miraculous battle in which Oengus II appealed to St. Andrew for help, with a flight of clouds in the shape of a diagonal cross appearing against a blue sky

In the News and Trending in the UK for Saint Andrew

Top things to do in the UK for St Andrew's Day

• Travel to Scotland to celebrate St. Andrew's Day. The holiday commences many parties and festivals in Scotland and it is also an official holiday in the country.
• Visit St Andrew's Cathedral in Patras, Greece. It is the largest church in the Balkans region and one of the largest in Europe. According to history, St. Andrew was crucified just outside of the church.
• Many people in Scotland and across the UK wear traditional Scottish attire on this day. Men can wear kilts, tartan shirts, or accessorize with a sporran or a kilt pin. Women can wear dresses or skirts made from tartan fabric or accessorize with a tartan scarf or brooch.
• Show support for local Scottish businesses by buying Scottish products such as whisky, shortbread, or traditional crafts on Saint Andrew's Day.