St. Eulogius belonged to a noble family in Cordoba, Spain. Eulogius had a pleasant demeanor and conducted his relationships with such kindness that everyone regarded him as a friend. He distinguished himself by his virtue and learning and, after his ordination, was placed at the head of the chief ecclesiastical school at Cordoba. During 848, Eulogius visited monasteries in northern Iberia, among them San Zacharias, where he received texts of St. Augustine and brought them back to Cordoba.
In the ninth century, Cordoba was the capital of the Muslim conquerors of Catholic Spain. The Muslim leaders allowed Christians to live in relative peace until persecution arose when some of the Muslim population began converting to Christianity. His most prominent charisma was his remarkable ability to inspire and uplift others. As a priest serving in an occupied country, he used this gift to strengthen his friends in the face of danger. In 859, Eulogius was arrested because he had protected and hidden Leocritia, a young convert. He was charged before a judge, who offered to let him off if he would soften his views. But Eulogius began to proclaim the Gospel to the court, so to silence him, the judge hastily condemned him to death. He was taken out and beheaded on the spot. Paul Alvarus wrote in 'Life of Eulogius' that a dove was seen flying above his martyred body, portraying his peacefulness and innocence, which could not be killed despite the attempts of the angered Muslims.
St. Eulogius, pray for us to remain victorious over the wiles of our enemies and remain steadfast in our faith.
Prepared and updated by:
Jonathan Fabian Ginunggil,
Penampang, Sabah Malaysia.
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