Saint Who?
Saints Who Achieved Sanctity Young
Saint Pelagius of Córdoba
Martyr († 925) Feast: June 26
Catholics and Muslims fought over control of Spain for many centuries. Pelagius’ uncle was the bishop of Córdoba and was kidnapped by Muslims during one of many battles. According to a common practice of the time, the uncle negotiated a deal with the Muslim leader, Abd al-Rahman III. The bishop was released and allowed to return to Córdoba and lead the Catholic faithful, while his ten-year-old nephew was held as a hostage in his place.
After three years had passed, negotiations for Pelagius’ release had stalled. Locked up in prison, Pelagius prayed to God to be set free, but he accepted his imprisonment with patience and even befriended his jailer. While he was waiting, he grew into a handsome teenager.
Abd al-Rahman invited Pelagius to his court and was impressed with the boy’s appearance. He offered to free Pelagius from prison, make him a page in his court, and give him money, clothes, and honors. The catch, of course, was that he first had to renounce his faith in Christ and become a Muslim. Pelagius simply replied, “A Christian I have been, Christian I am, and Christian I shall continue to be.” When threats and promises did not change his mind, Pelagius was condemned to be tortured and then executed. Pelagius’ bravery and faithfulness have been venerated by Spaniards ever since.
Lord Jesus Christ, give us courage when we are tempted to hide our faith.
