For members of the Order of St. George the Martyr, next week’s journey to Rome represents more than just a trip — it is a pilgrimage and an opportunity to honor the spirit and legacy of the Order. Led by our Grand Master, Robert Dryden, we are thrilled to embark on this journey from Cambridge to the Vatican for a private audience with His Holiness Pope Francis. This extraordinary opportunity allows us to deepen the bonds of fellowship between the Church of England and the Catholic Church while reaffirming the Order’s long-standing values of compassion, faith, and chivalry.
This upcoming visit has garnered attention locally, highlighted in the Cambridge Independent.
Our visit will take us to sites of deep historical and spiritual significance, including the grave of St. George, who stands as a symbol of courage and sacrifice for our Order. Additionally, we will visit the British Embassy in Rome and the Italian Senate of the Republic, continuing our tradition of engaging with civic and international communities.
The chance to meet with Pope Francis is a profound honor, and we are grateful for this opportunity to share in dialogue with a leader who embodies the values we hold dear. As one of our members, Knight Piero D’Angelico, noted, “Being invited to meet with His Holiness is an incredible privilege. We hope this visit will build bridges between our communities and strengthen our shared commitment to compassion, unity, and service.”
In advance of the visit, the Grand Master, Robert Dryden, conveyed our shared hopes to Pope Francis, expressing our admiration for the Holy See’s mission to promote peace, justice, and interfaith dialogue — values that resonate deeply with us as members of the Order of St. George the Martyr.
Founded more than 700 years ago in Hungary, our Order has always stood for charity, courage, and faith. Today, these values continue to guide our charitable efforts, including recent fundraising for the Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA). This cause, which benefits more than 20,000 disabled children and adults, reflects our commitment to supporting those in need, offering opportunities for therapeutic riding, fitness, and achievement.
As we prepare for this momentous journey, we carry with us the well-wishes of the Cambridge community and our dedication to the ideals that have guided the Order for centuries. Our hope is that this visit to the Vatican will not only strengthen our faith but also serve as a testament to the enduring power of unity, service, and friendship across borders and beliefs.