​

Saint George El Mozahem, a revered martyr in the Coptic Orthodox Church, was born in Talkha, Egypt, in the year 940. Raised in the faith of his Muslim father, Jumaa Al Atawy, and Christian mother, Mary, he embraced Christianity at the age of twelve. Despite initial challenges, including the reluctance of priests to baptize him due to the risks involved, George eventually baptized himself and took on the name George on the day of his baptism, coinciding with the feast of Saint George.

 

George lived a celibate life with his Christian wife and contemplated joining a monastery until he heard a divine voice urging him towards martyrdom. Arrested for apostasy from Islam, George faced attempted execution by burning, yet miraculously emerged unscathed. Though the governor considered releasing him, public outcry led to his eventual execution. His wife received his relics, which were preserved despite attempts by some Muslims to set them ablaze, believed to be by divine intervention. This narrative, captured in his hagiography, celebrates George El Mozahem's unwavering faith and sacrifice for his Christian beliefs.