Saint Andrew's Day - Who Was St. Andrew And Why Do Scots Celebrate His Day?

Summary

This video explores the significance of St. Andrew, one of Jesus Christ's 12 Apostles, and his impact on Scotland and Scots around the world. Known for being crucified on a diagonal cross, St. Andrew is the patron saint of several countries, including Scotland. His legacy in Scotland is highlighted through the St. Andrew's Cross, the country's national flag, and celebrations of St. Andrew's Day on November 30th. The video also delves into the historical and cultural importance of these traditions, both in Scotland and among Scottish communities in America.

Takeaways

• 📜 St. Andrew was one of the 12 Apostles of Jesus Christ and a fisherman from Galilee, brother to St. Peter.
• ✝️ St. Andrew was crucified on a diagonal cross on November 30th, 60 AD, as he did not feel worthy to die in the same manner as Jesus.
• 🗺️ Andrew is considered a significant missionary, spreading Christianity in the East and becoming the patron saint of 14 countries, including Scotland.
• 🏴 St. Andrew became the patron saint of Scotland, with legends suggesting his relics were brought to the country by a monk named Regulus.
• ⛪ St. Andrew's presence is marked by several relics housed in St. Mary's Metropolitan Cathedral in Edinburgh and the historic town of St. Andrews.
• 🏳️ The Saltire, Scotland's national flag featuring a white X-shaped cross on a blue background, symbolizes St. Andrew's crucifixion.
• ⚔️ The legend of King Angus seeing a white saltire in the sky before a victorious battle led to Andrew becoming the patron saint of the united kingdom of Scotland.
• 📜 The Declaration of Arbroath in 1320 reaffirmed Scotland's commitment to independence, invoking St. Andrew's protection.
• 🎉 St. Andrew's Day, celebrated on November 30th, marks the start of the winter festival season in Scotland, with various events and traditions.
• 🌍 Scottish immigrants in the American colonies initiated the secular celebration of St. Andrew's Day, forming societies that continue to celebrate and support Scottish heritage.

Q & A

Who was St. Andrew and what was his significance in Christianity?

St. Andrew was one of the 12 Apostles of Jesus Christ, a fisherman from Galilee, and the brother of Simon Peter (St. Peter). He is known for introducing Peter to Jesus and was regarded as the ultimate missionary, founding the Orthodox Church in the East.

Why is St. Andrew considered the patron saint of Scotland?

St. Andrew is considered the patron saint of Scotland due to legends that either he or a monk named Regulus brought his relics to the site of St. Andrew's Cathedral. Another legend tells of King Angus seeing a cloud formation of a white saltire in the sky before a victorious battle, after which he vowed to make St. Andrew the patron saint.

What is the significance of the saltire in Scottish history?

The saltire, or St. Andrew's cross, is significant as it symbolizes the crucifixion of St. Andrew on a diagonal cross. It became the national flag of Scotland, a white X-shaped cross on a blue background, after King Angus saw a white saltire in the sky before a battle in 832 AD.

What are some countries and regions that regard St. Andrew as their patron saint?

St. Andrew is the patron saint of several countries and regions, including Scotland, Barbados, Romania, Russia, Ukraine, Saranda, and cities in Italy, Portugal, Malta, the Philippines, and Greece.

How is St. Andrew's Day celebrated in Scotland and other places?

St. Andrew's Day is celebrated on November 30th with various events, including formal concerts, parades, and torch-lit processions in cities like St. Andrews. It marks the start of the winter festival season in Scotland, leading up to Hogmanay and Burns Night.

What role did Scottish immigrants in America play in the celebration of St. Andrew's Day?

Scottish immigrants in America played a significant role in celebrating St. Andrew's Day. The first recorded celebration was in 1729 by the St. Andrew Society of Charleston, South Carolina. Other societies in Philadelphia and New York followed, promoting Scottish heritage and providing mutual aid to their members.

What is the historical importance of the St. Andrew societies in America?

The St. Andrew societies in America historically provided mutual aid, support, and education for Scottish immigrants and their descendants. They also worked to preserve Scottish history and culture, offering scholarships and hosting various cultural events throughout the year.

What was the significance of the Declaration of Arbroath in relation to St. Andrew?

The Declaration of Arbroath, dated 1320, formally established Scotland's commitment to independence from England and invoked St. Andrew as the patron saint chosen by Jesus Christ to protect the Scots.

How did the image of St. Andrew's cross flag evolve over time?

The image of St. Andrew's cross flag evolved from early depictions in the 1503 Vienna Book of Hours, which showed a white cross on a red field. By 1542, a blue field was adopted, as seen in Sir David Lindsay of the Mount's register of Scottish arms. The saltire was later incorporated into the Union Flag in 1606.

How can individuals celebrate St. Andrew's Day today?

Individuals can celebrate St. Andrew's Day by attending formal events organized by St. Andrew societies, hosting dinners, going out with friends, or simply raising a toast to Scotland. Celebrations can include Scottish music, dance, and cultural activities.