St. Andrew

Today is the Feast of St. Andrew. This is the first feast day of the new year which is fitting to St. Andrew as the Greek Church calls him "the first called".
The account of St. Andrew's call to discipleship is in the same sequence as the invitation to Peter, James and John. All were fishermen (Mt 16:7).
What the Gospels do not tell us is how Andrew died. Legends tell that he was crucified in Greece on a cross called a "saltire". It is debated on why this particular cross was used. One legend has Andrew, like Peter, requesting not to be crucified in the same manner of Christ out of humility to the Lord. Another account tells that an "inverted" cross was an insult to the Christian sensibilities.
Regardless, due to traditions that tell of Andrew evangelizing Greece, Scotland and other regions. The Scottish flag, as well as other nations said to have connections to Andrew, even includes the "Cross of Andrew" in it's design.

The Scottish Flag

Now for the Mississippi connection. The Cross of St. Andrew also has been rumored to be part of the "confederate flag" which is still included in the Mississippi State Flag. However, the designer of the flag, William Porcher Miles, is said to not have been aware of St. Andrew or his flag. He was more interested in something ceremonial to represent the Confederate States, especially during battle.

The "Rebel" flag