Saint Pelagius of Córdoba was born in Spain and, at the age of ten, was given as a hostage to guarantee the release of his uncle, Bishop Hermoygius, who had been captured by the Moors in Córdoba. Pelagius was imprisoned and forgotten for three years. When the Emir offered him his freedom if he would embrace Islam, Pelagius refused, remaining steadfast in his Catholic faith. After enduring six hours of indescribable torture, he died a martyr for Christ. Today, Saint Pelagius is remembered for his courage, faith, and unwavering devotion in the face of persecution. His remains are kept at the Benedictine Monastery of San Pelayo.
