During the 8th century, Mohammedans ruled Cordoba, Spain, and initiated a persecution of the Chrisitans. Nathalia and Aurelius were converted Moslems who decided to practice the faith openly. After setting aside enough money to take care of their daughter’s future, poor and practiced penance and devotion.The Saints’ example proved to be an inspiration for a relative of Aurelius named Felix and his wife Liliosa, who had been practicing her faith in secret. They joined Nathalia and Aurelius in visiting and ministering to the Christians in prison.
Felix and Liliosa were quickly arrested and cast into prison along with beggar named George, who belonged to the monastery of St. Sabas in Jerusalem and had toured Egypt and Europe in search of alms for his house. They were all condemned to death—the first four giving up the Moslem religion and George for insulting Mohammed. On July 27, 852, these saintly followers of Christ achieved the martyrdom they so avidly sought.
PRAYER: Almighty, ever-living God, You conferred on Sts. Nathalia, Aurelius, Liliosa, Felix, and George the grace to suffer for Christ. Extend Your Divine help also to our weakness, so that just as they never shrank from dying for You we may remain steadfast in our confession of You. Amen.