Category: Polycarp of Smyrna

The Church of God living as strangers in Smyrna, to the Church of God living as strangers in Philomelium, and to all the gatherings of the Holy and Catholic Church in every place: May mercy, peace, and love from God the Father and our Lord Jesus Christ be multiplied to you.

The Church of God which sojourns at Smyrna, to the Church of God sojourning in Philomelium, and to all the congregations of the Holy and Catholic Church in every place: Mercy, peace, and love from God the Father, and our Lord Jesus Christ, be multiplied.

We have written to you, brothers, about the martyrs, and especially about blessed Polycarp, who ended the persecution by setting a seal upon it, as it were, through his martyrdom. For nearly all the events that happened before this one took place so that the Lord might show us from above a martyrdom that fits the Gospel. For he waited to be handed over, just as the Lord had done, so that we too might become his followers, while we look not only at what concerns ourselves but also care for our neighbors. For it is the mark of a true and well-grounded love not only to wish for one's own salvation, but also for that of all the brothers.

We have written to you, brethren, as to what relates to the martyrs, and especially to the blessed Polycarp, who put an end to the persecution, having, as it were, set a seal upon it by his martyrdom. For almost all the events that happened previously [to this one], took place that the Lord might show us from above a martyrdom becoming the Gospel. For he waited to be delivered up, even as the Lord had done, that we also might become his followers, while we look not merely at what concerns ourselves but have regard also to our neighbours. For it is the part of a true and well-founded love, not only to wish one's self to be saved, but also all the brethren.

All the martyrdoms that took place according to God's will were blessed and noble. Since we claim to be more devout than others, we must acknowledge God's authority over everything. Who could fail to admire their nobility of mind, their patience, and the love they showed toward their Lord? Even when they were torn so badly by whips that their bodies were laid open to the inner veins and arteries, they endured patiently, while even the bystanders pitied them and wept. They reached such a level of courage that not one of them let out a sigh or groan. This proved to all of us that these holy martyrs of Christ, even while suffering such torments, were absent from the body, or rather, that the Lord stood beside them and spoke with them. Looking to Christ's grace, they despised all the torments of this world, buying their freedom from eternal punishment through the suffering of a single hour. For this reason, the fire of their cruel executioners felt cool to them. They kept in view their escape from the eternal fire that will never be quenched, and they looked forward with the eyes of their hearts to the good things stored up for those who endure—things that ear has not heard, nor eye seen, nor have entered into human hearts, but which the Lord revealed to them, since they were no longer merely human but had already become angels. Likewise, those condemned to the wild beasts endured terrible tortures, being stretched out on beds full of spikes and subjected to various other kinds of torments, so that the tyrant might, if possible, lead them through prolonged suffering to deny Christ.

All the martyrdoms, then, were blessed and noble which took place according to the will of God. For it becomes us who profess greater piety than others, to ascribe the authority over all things to God. And truly, who can fail to admire their nobleness of mind, and their patience, with that love towards their Lord which they displayed?– who, when they were so torn with scourges, that the frame of their bodies, even to the very inward veins and arteries, was laid open, still patiently endured, while even those that stood by pitied and bewailed them. But they reached such a pitch of magnanimity, that not one of them let a sigh or a groan escape them; thus proving to us all that those holy martyrs of Christ, at the very time when they suffered such torments, were absent from the body, or rather, that the Lord then stood by them, and communed with them. And, looking to the grace of Christ, they despised all the torments of this world, redeeming themselves from eternal punishment by [the suffering of] a single hour. For this reason the fire of their savage executioners appeared cool to them. For they kept before their view escape from that fire which is eternal and never shall be quenched, and looked forward with the eyes of their heart to those good things which are laid up for such as endure; things which ear has not heard, nor eye seen, neither have entered into the heart of man, 1 Corinthians 2:9 but were revealed by the Lord to them, inasmuch as they were no longer men, but had already become angels. And, in like manner, those who were condemned to the wild beasts endured dreadful tortures, being stretched out upon beds full of spikes, and subjected to various other kinds of torments, in order that, if it were possible, the tyrant might, by their lingering tortures, lead them to a denial [of Christ].

The devil truly devised many schemes against them, but thanks be to God, he could not overcome them all. The most noble Germanicus strengthened the fearfulness of others through his own patient endurance, and fought bravely against the wild beasts. When the proconsul tried to persuade him and urged him to have compassion on his own age, Germanicus instead drew the wild beast toward himself and provoked it, wanting to depart even more quickly from an unrighteous and godless world. At this, the entire crowd, amazed at the noble character shown by the devout and godly Christian people, cried out, "Away with the atheists! Let Polycarp be found!"

For the devil did indeed invent many things against them; but thanks be to God, he could not prevail over all. For the most noble Germanicus strengthened the timidity of others by his own patience, and fought heroically with the wild beasts. For, when the proconsul sought to persuade him, and urged him to take pity upon his age, he attracted the wild beast towards himself, and provoked it, being desirous to escape all the more quickly from an unrighteous and impious world. But upon this the whole multitude, marvelling at the nobility of mind displayed by the devout and godly race of Christians, cried out, Away with the Atheists; let Polycarp be sought out!

Now there was a man named Quintus, a Phrygian who had recently arrived from Phrygia. When he saw the wild beasts, he became frightened. This was the same man who had forced himself and some others to come forward voluntarily for trial. The proconsul, after much pleading, persuaded him to swear the oath and offer sacrifice. For this reason, brothers, we do not approve of those who turn themselves in voluntarily to suffer, since the Gospel does not teach us to do this. Matthew 10:23

Now one named Quintus, a Phrygian, who was but lately come from Phrygia, when he saw the wild beasts, became afraid. This was the man who forced himself and some others to come forward voluntarily [for trial]. Him the proconsul, after many entreaties, persuaded to swear and to offer sacrifice. Wherefore, brethren, we do not commend those who give themselves up [to suffering], seeing the Gospel does not teach so to do. Matthew 10:23

But the most admirable Polycarp, when he first heard that he was being sought, was not disturbed at all, but decided to stay in the city. However, out of respect for the wishes of many people, he was persuaded to leave it. He therefore went to a country house not far from the city. There he stayed with a few friends, doing nothing else night and day except praying for all people and for the Churches throughout the world, according to his usual custom. And while he was praying, a vision appeared to him three days before he was arrested; and behold, the pillow under his head seemed to him to be on fire. After this, turning to those who were with him, he said to them prophetically, I must be burnt alive.

But the most admirable Polycarp, when he first heard [that he was sought for], was in no measure disturbed, but resolved to stay in the city. However, in deference to the wish of many, he was persuaded to leave it. He departed, therefore, to a country house not far distant from the city. There he stayed with a few [friends], engaged in nothing else night and day than praying for all men, and for the Churches throughout the world, according to his usual custom. And while he was praying, a vision presented itself to him three days before he was taken; and, behold, the pillow under his head seemed to him on fire. Upon this, turning to those that were with him, he said to them prophetically, I must be burnt alive.

When those who were looking for him arrived, he left for another house, but his pursuers came there right after him. When they did not find him, they seized two young men who were there, and one of them, under torture, confessed. It was impossible for him to remain hidden, since those who betrayed him were members of his own household. The Irenarch (whose office is the same as that of the Cleronomus), named Herod, hurried to bring him into the stadium. This all happened so that he might fulfill his appointed destiny, becoming a partaker of Christ, and so that those who betrayed him might suffer the same punishment as Judas himself.

And when those who sought for him were at hand, he departed to another dwelling, whither his pursuers immediately came after him. And when they found him not, they seized upon two youths [that were there], one of whom, being subjected to torture, confessed. It was thus impossible that he should stay hidden, since those that betrayed him were of his own household. The Irenarch then (whose office is the same as that of the Cleronomus), by name Herod, hastened to bring him into the stadium. [This all happened] that he might fulfil his special lot, being made a partaker of Christ, and that they who betrayed him might undergo the punishment of Judas himself.

His pursuers, along with horsemen, and taking the youth with them, went out at supper-time on the day of preparation with their usual weapons, as if they were going after a robber. When they arrived about evening at the place where he was, they found him lying down in the upper room of a small house, from which he could have escaped to another place, but he refused, saying, "The will of God be done." So when he heard that they had come, he went downstairs and spoke with them. Those who were present were amazed at his age and steadfastness, and some of them said, "Was so much effort made to capture such a venerable man?" Immediately, in that very hour, he ordered that food and drink be set before them, as much as they wanted, while he asked them to allow him an hour to pray without being disturbed. When they gave him permission, he stood and prayed, being full of the grace of God, so that he could not stop for two full hours, to the amazement of those who heard him, so much so that many began to regret that they had come out against so godly and venerable an old man.

His pursuers then, along with horsemen, and taking the youth with them, went forth at supper-time on the day of the preparation with their usual weapons, as if going out against a robber. Matthew 26:55 And having come about evening [to the place where he was], they found him lying down in the upper room of a certain little house, from which he might have escaped into another place; but he refused, saying, The will of God be done. Matthew 6:10; Acts 21:14 So when he heard that they had come, he went down and spoke with them. And as those that were present marvelled at his age and constancy, some of them said. Was so much effort made to capture such a venerable man? Immediately then, in that very hour, he ordered that something to eat and drink should be set before them, as much indeed as they cared for, while he besought them to allow him an hour to pray without disturbance. And on their giving him leave, he stood and prayed, being full of the grace of God, so that he could not cease for two full hours, to the astonishment of those who heard him, insomuch that many began to repent that they had come forth against so godly and venerable an old man.

As soon as he finished praying, having mentioned everyone who had ever been in contact with him, both small and great, famous and unknown, as well as the whole Catholic Church throughout the world, the time for his departure arrived. They placed him on a donkey and brought him into the city. The day was the great Sabbath. The Irenarch Herod, along with his father Nicetes (both riding in a chariot), met him. They brought him up into the chariot, sat down beside him, and tried to persuade him, saying, "What harm is there in saying 'Lord Caesar' and offering sacrifice, along with the other customary ceremonies, and in this way saving yourself?" At first he gave them no answer. When they kept pressing him, he said, "I will not do what you are advising me to do." Since they had no hope of persuading him, they began to speak harsh words to him and violently threw him out of the chariot. As he got down from the carriage, he dislocated his leg from the fall. But without being troubled, and as if he were not suffering at all, he moved forward eagerly and quickly, and was led to the stadium, where the uproar was so great that no one could be heard.

Now, as soon as he had ceased praying, having made mention of all that had at any time come in contact with him, both small and great, illustrious and obscure, as well as the whole Catholic Church throughout the world, the time of his departure having arrived, they set him upon an ass, and conducted him into the city, the day being that of the great Sabbath. And the Irenarch Herod, accompanied by his father Nicetes (both riding in a chariot), met him, and taking him up into the chariot, they seated themselves beside him, and endeavoured to persuade him, saying, What harm is there in saying, Lord Cæsar, and in sacrificing, with the other ceremonies observed on such occasions, and so make sure of safety? But he at first gave them no answer; and when they continued to urge him, he said, I shall not do as you advise me. So they, having no hope of persuading him, began to speak bitter words unto him, and cast him with violence out of the chariot, insomuch that, in getting down from the carriage, he dislocated his leg [by the fall]. But without being disturbed, and as if suffering nothing, he went eagerly forward with all haste, and was conducted to the stadium, where the tumult was so great, that there was no possibility of being heard.

When Polycarp was entering the stadium, a voice came to him from heaven, saying, Be strong, and show yourself a man, O Polycarp! No one saw who spoke to him, but those of our brothers who were there heard the voice. As he was brought forward, a great uproar arose when people heard that Polycarp had been captured. When he came near, the proconsul asked him if he was Polycarp. When he admitted that he was, the proconsul tried to persuade him to deny Christ, saying, Have respect for your old age, and other similar things according to their custom, such as, Swear by the fortune of Caesar; repent, and say, Away with the Atheists. But Polycarp, looking with a serious expression at the whole crowd of wicked pagans in the stadium, and waving his hand toward them, while groaning and looking up to heaven, said, Away with the Atheists. Then the proconsul pressed him further, saying, Swear, and I will set you free, reproach Christ. Polycarp declared, Eighty-six years I have served Him, and He never did me any wrong: how then can I blaspheme my King and my Savior?

Now, as Polycarp was entering into the stadium, there came to him a voice from heaven, saying, Be strong, and show yourself a man, O Polycarp! No one saw who it was that spoke to him; but those of our brethren who were present heard the voice. And as he was brought forward, the tumult became great when they heard that Polycarp was taken. And when he came near, the proconsul asked him whether he was Polycarp. On his confessing that he was, [the proconsul] sought to persuade him to deny [ Christ], saying, Have respect to your old age, and other similar things, according to their custom, [such as], Swear by the fortune of Cæsar; repent, and say, Away with the Atheists. But Polycarp, gazing with a stern countenance on all the multitude of the wicked heathen then in the stadium, and waving his hand towards them, while with groans he looked up to heaven, said, Away with the Atheists. Then, the proconsul urging him, and saying, Swear, and I will set you at liberty, reproach Christ; Polycarp declared, Eighty and six years have I served Him, and He never did me any injury: how then can I blaspheme my King and my Saviour?

When the proconsul pressed him yet again and said, "Swear by the fortune of Caesar," he answered,

And when the proconsul yet again pressed him, and said, Swear by the fortune of Cæsar, he answered,

Since you are pointlessly insisting that I should swear by the fortune of Caesar, as you put it, and you pretend not to know who and what I am, listen to me declare boldly: I am a Christian. And if you want to learn what the doctrines of Christianity are, set a day for me, and you will hear them.

Since you are vainly urgent that, as you say, I should swear by the fortune of Cæsar, and pretend not to know who and what I am, hear me declare with boldness, I am a Christian. And if you wish to learn what the doctrines of Christianity are, appoint me a day, and you shall hear them.

The proconsul replied, "Persuade the people." But Polycarp said,

The proconsul replied, Persuade the people. But Polycarp said,

I have considered it right to explain my faith to you, because we are taught to show proper honor (which causes us no harm) to the governing powers and authorities that God has established. But as for these people, I do not consider them worthy of receiving any explanation from me.

To you I have thought it right to offer an account [of my faith]; for we are taught to give all due honour (which entails no injury upon ourselves) to the powers and authorities which are ordained of God. Romans 13:1-7; Titus 3:1 But as for these, I do not deem them worthy of receiving any account from me.

The proconsul then said to him, I have wild beasts ready; I will throw you to them unless you repent.

The proconsul then said to him, I have wild beasts at hand; to these will I cast you, unless you repent.

But he answered, "Call them then, for we are not in the habit of repenting of what is good in order to adopt what is evil. And it is right for me to be changed from what is evil to what is righteous."

But he answered, Call them then, for we are not accustomed to repent of what is good in order to adopt that which is evil; and it is well for me to be changed from what is evil to what is righteous.

But the proconsul said to him again, I will have you consumed by fire, since you despise the wild beasts, if you will not repent.

But again the proconsul said to him, I will cause you to be consumed by fire, seeing you despise the wild beasts, if you will not repent.

Polycarp replied, "You threaten me with fire that burns for an hour and then goes out after a short time, but you don't know about the fire of the coming judgment and eternal punishment that is reserved for the ungodly. So why are you waiting? Do whatever you want."

But Polycarp said, You threaten me with fire which burns for an hour, and after a little is extinguished, but are ignorant of the fire of the coming judgment and of eternal punishment, reserved for the ungodly. But why do you tarry? Bring forth what you will.

As he spoke these words and many other similar things, he was filled with confidence and joy, and his face was full of grace. Not only did his expression not fall as though he were troubled by what was said to him, but on the contrary, the proconsul was astonished and sent his herald to announce three times in the middle of the stadium, "Polycarp has confessed that he is a Christian." When the herald made this announcement, the entire crowd of both pagans and Jews who lived at Smyrna cried out with uncontrollable rage and in a loud voice, "This is the teacher of Asia, the father of the Christians, and the destroyer of our gods, the one who has been teaching many not to sacrifice or to worship the gods." Shouting these things, they cried out and begged Philip the Asiarch to release a lion against Polycarp. But Philip replied that it was not lawful for him to do so, since the wild beast shows had already ended. Then it seemed right to them to cry out with one voice that Polycarp should be burned alive. For in this way the vision that had been revealed to him concerning his pillow had to be fulfilled, when, seeing it on fire while he was praying, he turned and said prophetically to the faithful who were with him, "I must be burned alive."

While he spoke these and many other like things, he was filled with confidence and joy, and his countenance was full of grace, so that not merely did it not fall as if troubled by the things said to him, but, on the contrary, the proconsul was astonished, and sent his herald to proclaim in the midst of the stadium thrice, Polycarp has confessed that he is a Christian. This proclamation having been made by the herald, the whole multitude both of the heathen and Jews, who dwelt at Smyrna, cried out with uncontrollable fury, and in a loud voice, This is the teacher of Asia, the father of the Christians, and the overthrower of our gods, he who has been teaching many not to sacrifice, or to worship the gods. Speaking thus, they cried out, and besought Philip the Asiarch to let loose a lion upon Polycarp. But Philip answered that it was not lawful for him to do so, seeing the shows of wild beasts were already finished. Then it seemed good to them to cry out with one consent, that Polycarp should be burnt alive. For thus it behooved the vision which was revealed to him in regard to his pillow to be fulfilled, when, seeing it on fire as he was praying, he turned about and said prophetically to the faithful that were with him, I must be burnt alive.

This was done more quickly than it was said, as the crowds immediately gathered wood and kindling from the shops and public baths. The Jews especially helped eagerly with this, as was their custom. When the funeral pile was ready, Polycarp removed all his outer garments and untied his belt. He also tried to take off his sandals, though he was not used to doing this himself, since the faithful were always eager to be the first to touch his skin. Even before his martyrdom, he was honored in every way because of his good conduct. They immediately placed around him the materials that had been prepared for the funeral pile. But when they were about to fasten him with nails, he said, "Leave me as I am. The one who gives me strength to endure the fire will also enable me to remain still in the pile without your securing me with nails."

This, then, was carried into effect with greater speed than it was spoken, the multitudes immediately gathering together wood and fagots out of the shops and baths; the Jews especially, according to custom, eagerly assisting them in it. And when the funeral pile was ready, Polycarp, laying aside all his garments, and loosing his girdle, sought also to take off his sandals — a thing he was not accustomed to do, inasmuch as every one of the faithful was always eager who should first touch his skin. For, on account of his good behavior he was, even before his martyrdom, adorned with every kind of good. Immediately then they surrounded him with those substances which had been prepared for the funeral pile. But when they were about also to fix him with nails, he said, Leave me as I am; for He that gives me strength to endure the fire, will also enable me, without your securing me by nails, to remain without moving in the pile.

They did not nail him at that time, but simply tied him up. With his hands placed behind him and bound like a noble ram taken from a great flock for sacrifice, prepared to be an acceptable burnt offering to God, he looked up to heaven and said,

They did not nail him then, but simply bound him. And he, placing his hands behind him, and being bound like a distinguished ram [taken] out of a great flock for sacrifice, and prepared to be an acceptable burnt-offering unto God, looked up to heaven, and said,

O Lord God Almighty, the Father of your beloved and blessed Son Jesus Christ, through whom we have received knowledge of you, the God of angels and powers, and of all creation, and of the entire race of the righteous who live in your presence, I thank you that you have considered me worthy of this day and hour, so that I might have a share among your martyrs, in the cup of your Christ, leading to the resurrection of eternal life, both of soul and body, through the incorruption given by the Holy Spirit. May I be accepted this day in your presence as a rich and acceptable sacrifice, just as you, the ever-truthful God, have planned ahead, revealed to me beforehand, and have now brought to completion. Therefore I also praise you for everything, I bless you, I glorify you, together with the everlasting and heavenly Jesus Christ, your beloved Son, with whom, to you and the Holy Spirit, be glory both now and forever. Amen.

O Lord God Almighty, the Father of your beloved and blessed Son Jesus Christ, by whom we have received the knowledge of You, the God of angels and powers, and of every creature, and of the whole race of the righteous who live before you, I give You thanks that You have counted me, worthy of this day and this hour, that I should have a part in the number of Your martyrs, in the cup of your Christ, to the resurrection of eternal life, both of soul and body, through the incorruption [imparted] by the Holy Ghost. Among whom may I be accepted this day before You as a fat and acceptable sacrifice, according as You, the ever-truthful God, have foreordained, have revealed beforehand to me, and now have fulfilled. Wherefore also I praise You for all things, I bless You, I glorify You, along with the everlasting and heavenly Jesus Christ, Your beloved Son, with whom, to You, and the Holy Ghost, be glory both now and to all coming ages. Amen.

When he had pronounced this amen and finished his prayer, those assigned to the task lit the fire. And as the flame blazed up with great intensity, we who were permitted to witness it saw a great miracle, and we have been preserved so that we might report to others what happened. For the fire took the shape of an arch, like a ship's sail filled with wind, and surrounded the martyr's body like a circle. And he appeared inside not like burning flesh, but like baking bread, or like gold and silver glowing in a furnace. Moreover, we noticed such a sweet smell coming from the fire, as if frankincense or some other precious spices were burning there.

When he had pronounced this amen, and so finished his prayer, those who were appointed for the purpose kindled the fire. And as the flame blazed forth in great fury, we, to whom it was given to witness it, beheld a great miracle, and have been preserved that we might report to others what then took place. For the fire, shaping itself into the form of an arch, like the sail of a ship when filled with the wind, encompassed as by a circle the body of the martyr. And he appeared within not like flesh which is burnt, but as bread that is baked, or as gold and silver glowing in a furnace. Moreover, we perceived such a sweet odour [coming from the pile], as if frankincense or some such precious spices had been smoking there.

When those wicked men finally realized that his body could not be consumed by the fire, they ordered an executioner to approach and pierce him through with a dagger. When he did this, a dove came out, along with a great quantity of blood, so that the fire was extinguished. All the people were amazed that there should be such a difference between the unbelievers and the elect, of whom this most admirable Polycarp was one. He had been in our own times an apostolic and prophetic teacher, and bishop of the Catholic Church in Smyrna. Every word that came out of his mouth either has been or will yet be accomplished.

At length, when those wicked men perceived that his body could not be consumed by the fire, they commanded an executioner to go near and pierce him through with a dagger. And on his doing this, there came forth a dove, and a great quantity of blood, so that the fire was extinguished; and all the people wondered that there should be such a difference between the unbelievers and the elect, of whom this most admirable Polycarp was one, having in our own times been an apostolic and prophetic teacher, and bishop of the Catholic Church which is in Smyrna. For every word that went out of his mouth either has been or shall yet be accomplished.

But when the enemy of the righteous people, the envious, malicious, and evil one, saw the remarkable nature of his martyrdom and considered the blameless life he had lived from the beginning, and how he was now crowned with the wreath of immortality, having without question received his reward, he did everything possible to prevent us from taking away even the smallest memorial of him, though many wanted to do this and to possess his holy flesh. To this end he prompted Nicetes, the father of Herod and brother of Alce, to go and beg the governor not to release his body for burial, saying that otherwise they might abandon the one who was crucified and begin to worship this one instead. He said this at the suggestion and insistent urging of the Jews, who also watched us as we tried to take him out of the fire, not understanding that it is impossible for us ever to abandon Christ, who suffered for the salvation of all who will be saved throughout the whole world (the blameless one for sinners), or to worship anyone else. For we worship Him as the Son of God, but the martyrs we rightly love as disciples and followers of the Lord, because of their extraordinary devotion to their own King and Master, and may we also become their companions and fellow disciples!

But when the adversary of the race of the righteous, the envious, malicious, and wicked one, perceived the impressive nature of his martyrdom, and [considered] the blameless life he had led from the beginning, and how he was now crowned with the wreath of immortality, having beyond dispute received his reward, he did his utmost that not the least memorial of him should be taken away by us, although many desired to do this, and to become possessors of his holy flesh. For this end he suggested it to Nicetes, the father of Herod and brother of Alce, to go and entreat the governor not to give up his body to be buried, lest, said he, forsaking Him that was crucified, they begin to worship this one. This he said at the suggestion and urgent persuasion of the Jews, who also watched us, as we sought to take him out of the fire, being ignorant of this, that it is neither possible for us ever to forsake Christ, who suffered for the salvation of such as shall be saved throughout the whole world (the blameless one for sinners), nor to worship any other. For Him indeed, as being the Son of God, we adore; but the martyrs, as disciples and followers of the Lord, we worthily love on account of their extraordinary affection towards their own King and Master, of whom may we also be made companions and fellow disciples!

The centurion, seeing the conflict stirred up by the Jews, placed the body in the middle of the fire and burned it completely. Afterwards, we collected his bones, which were more valuable than the finest jewels and purer than gold, and placed them in an appropriate location. There, gathering together as we have opportunity, with joy and celebration, the Lord will allow us to observe the anniversary of his martyrdom, both to remember those who have already completed their race and to train and prepare those who will follow in their footsteps.

The centurion then, seeing the strife excited by the Jews, placed the body in the midst of the fire, and consumed it. Accordingly, we afterwards took up his bones, as being more precious than the most exquisite jewels, and more purified than gold, and deposited them in a fitting place, whither, being gathered together, as opportunity is allowed us, with joy and rejoicing, the Lord shall grant us to celebrate the anniversary of his martyrdom, both in memory of those who have already finished their course, and for the exercising and preparation of those yet to walk in their steps.

This, then, is the account of the blessed Polycarp, who was the twelfth person martyred in Smyrna (counting those also from Philadelphia), yet he holds a unique place in everyone's memory, so much so that he is spoken of everywhere even by unbelievers themselves. He was not merely a distinguished teacher, but also an outstanding martyr, whose martyrdom everyone desires to imitate, since it was completely consistent with the Gospel of Christ. For, having overcome the unjust governor through patience, and thus received the crown of immortality, he now rejoices with the apostles and all the righteous in heaven, glorifying God the Father and blessing our Lord Jesus Christ, the Savior of our souls, the Governor of our bodies, and the Shepherd of the Catholic Church throughout the world.

This, then, is the account of the blessed Polycarp, who, being the twelfth that was martyred in Smyrna (reckoning those also of Philadelphia), yet occupies a place of his own in the memory of all men, insomuch that he is everywhere spoken of by the heathen themselves. He was not merely an illustrious teacher, but also a pre-eminent martyr, whose martyrdom all desire to imitate, as having been altogether consistent with the Gospel of Christ. For, having through patience overcome the unjust governor, and thus acquired the crown of immortality, he now, with the apostles and all the righteous [in heaven], rejoicingly glorifies God, even the Father, and blesses our Lord Jesus Christ, the Saviour of our souls, the Governor of our bodies, and the Shepherd of the Catholic Church throughout the world.

Since you asked us to give you a full account of what actually happened, we have sent you this brief report for now through our brother Marcus. So when you have read this letter yourselves, please send it on to the brothers who are farther away, so they too may glorify the Lord, who chooses His own servants in this way. To Him who is able to bring us all by His grace and goodness into His eternal kingdom, through His only-begotten Son Jesus Christ, to Him be glory, and honor, and power, and majesty, forever. Amen. Greet all the saints. Those who are with us greet you, and Evarestus, who wrote this letter, with all his household.

Since, then, you requested that we would at large make you acquainted with what really took place, we have for the present sent you this summary account through our brother Marcus. When, therefore, you have yourselves read this Epistle, be pleased to send it to the brethren at a greater distance, that they also may glorify the Lord, who makes such choice of His own servants. To Him who is able to bring us all by His grace and goodness into his everlasting kingdom, through His only-begotten Son Jesus Christ, to Him be glory, and honour, and power, and majesty, forever. Amen. Salute all the saints. They that are with us salute you, and Evarestus, who wrote this Epistle, with all his house.

The blessed Polycarp suffered martyrdom on the second day of the month Xanthicus at its beginning, seven days before the Kalends of May, on the great Sabbath, at the eighth hour. He was arrested by Herod when Philip of Tralles was high priest and Statius Quadratus was proconsul, but with Jesus Christ reigning as King forever, to whom belong glory, honor, majesty, and an eternal throne, from generation to generation. Amen.

Now, the blessed Polycarp suffered martyrdom on the second day of the month Xanthicus just begun, the seventh day before the Kalends of May, on the great Sabbath, at the eighth hour. He was taken by Herod, Philip the Trallian being high priest, Statius Quadratus being proconsul, but Jesus Christ being King for ever, to whom be glory, honour, majesty, and an everlasting throne, from generation to generation. Amen.

We wish you all happiness, brothers, as long as you live according to the teaching of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Glory belongs to God the Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit for the salvation of His holy chosen people. The blessed Polycarp suffered following Christ's example, and may we also be found in the kingdom of Jesus Christ by following in his footsteps!

We wish you, brethren, all happiness, while you walk according to the doctrine of the Gospel of Jesus Christ; with whom be glory to God the Father and the Holy Spirit, for the salvation of His holy elect, after whose example the blessed Polycarp suffered, following in whose steps may we too be found in the kingdom of Jesus Christ!

Gaius copied these things from the manuscript of Irenaeus, who was a disciple of Polycarp, and Gaius himself had been close to Irenaeus. And I, Socrates, copied them at Corinth from the manuscript of Gaius. Grace be with you all.

These things Caius transcribed from the copy of Irenæus (who was a disciple of Polycarp), having himself been intimate with Irenæus. And I Socrates transcribed them at Corinth from the copy of Caius. Grace be with you all.

I, Pionius, copied these things again from the earlier written copy, having carefully examined them. The blessed Polycarp revealed them to me through a vision, as I will explain later. I have gathered these materials when they had nearly disappeared due to the passing of time, so that the Lord Jesus Christ may also gather me together with His chosen ones into His heavenly kingdom. To Him, along with the Father and the Holy Spirit, be glory forever and ever. Amen.

And I again, Pionius, wrote them from the previously written copy, having carefully searched into them, and the blessed Polycarp having manifested them to me through a revelation, even as I shall show in what follows. I have collected these things, when they had almost faded away through the lapse of time, that the Lord Jesus Christ may also gather me along with His elect into His heavenly kingdom, to whom, with the Father and the Holy Spirit, be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

Polycarp and the presbyters with him, to the Church of God living as sojourners at Philippi: May mercy and peace be multiplied to you from God Almighty and from the Lord Jesus Christ, our Savior.

Polycarp, and the presbyters with him, to the Church of God sojourning at Philippi: Mercy to you, and peace from God Almighty, and from the Lord Jesus Christ, our Saviour, be multiplied.

I have greatly rejoiced with you in our Lord Jesus Christ, because you have followed the example of true love as displayed by God, and have accompanied, as was fitting for you, those who were bound in chains—the appropriate ornaments of saints, which are truly the crowns of the true elect of God and our Lord. I rejoice also because the strong root of your faith, which was spoken of in days long past, continues even until now and bears fruit to our Lord Jesus Christ, who suffered even to death for our sins, but whom God raised from the dead, having released the bonds of the grave. Though you do not see Him now, you believe in Him, and believing, you rejoice with unspeakable and glorious joy—a joy that many desire to enter into, knowing that you are saved by grace, not by works, but by the will of God through Jesus Christ.

I have greatly rejoiced with you in our Lord Jesus Christ, because you have followed the example of true love [as displayed by God], and have accompanied, as became you, those who were bound in chains, the fitting ornaments of saints, and which are indeed the diadems of the true elect of God and our Lord; and because the strong root of your faith, spoken of in days Philippians 1:5 long gone by, endures even until now, and brings forth fruit to our Lord Jesus Christ, who for our sins suffered even unto death, [but] whom God raised from the dead, having loosed the bands of the grave. In whom, though now you see Him not, you believe, and believing, rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory; 1 Peter 1:8 into which joy many desire to enter, knowing that by grace you are saved, not of works, Ephesians 2:8-9 but by the will of God through Jesus Christ.

Therefore, prepare yourselves and serve the Lord in fear and truth, as people who have abandoned the worthless, meaningless talk and error of the crowd, and have believed in Him who raised our Lord Jesus Christ from the dead and gave Him glory and a throne at His right hand. All things in heaven and on earth are subject to Him. Every spirit serves Him. He comes as the Judge of the living and the dead. God will require His blood from those who do not believe in Him. But He who raised Him from the dead will also raise us up, if we do His will, walk in His commandments, and love what He loved, keeping ourselves from all unrighteousness, greed, love of money, slander, false witness. We must not return evil for evil, or insult for insult, or blow for blow, or curse for curse, but instead remember what the Lord said in His teaching: Judge not, that you be not judged; forgive, and it shall be forgiven to you; be merciful, that you may obtain mercy; with what measure you measure, it shall be measured to you again; and once more, Blessed are the poor, and those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of God.

Wherefore, girding up your loins, 1 Peter 1:13; Ephesians 6:14 serve the Lord in fear and truth, as those who have forsaken the vain, empty talk and error of the multitude, and believed in Him who raised up our Lord Jesus Christ from the dead, and gave Him glory, 1 Peter 1:21 and a throne at His right hand. To Him all things 1 Peter 3:22; Philippians 2:10 in heaven and on earth are subject. Him every spirit serves. He comes as the Judge of the living and the dead. Acts 17:31 His blood will God require of those who do not believe in Him. But He who raised Him up from the dead will raise us up also, if we do His will, and walk in His commandments, and love what He loved, keeping ourselves from all unrighteousness, covetousness, love of money, evil speaking, false witness; not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing, 1 Peter 3:9 or blow for blow, or cursing for cursing, but being mindful of what the Lord said in His teaching: Judge not, that you be not judged; Matthew 7:1 forgive, and it shall be forgiven unto you; be merciful, that you may obtain mercy; Luke 6:36 with what measure you measure, it shall be measured to you again; Matthew 7:2; Luke 6:38 and once more, Blessed are the poor, and those that are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of God.

Brothers, I write these things to you about righteousness, not because I'm claiming anything for myself, but because you invited me to do so. For neither I nor anyone else like me can match the wisdom of the blessed and glorified Paul. When he was with you, he accurately and firmly taught the word of truth in the presence of those who were alive at that time. And when he was away from you, he wrote you a letter which, if you study it carefully, you will find builds you up in that faith which has been given to you—a faith which is followed by hope and preceded by love toward God, Christ, and our neighbor, and which is the mother of us all. For if anyone possesses these qualities inwardly, he has fulfilled the command of righteousness, since the one who has love is far from all sin.

These things, brethren, I write to you concerning righteousness, not because I take anything upon myself, but because you have invited me to do so. For neither I, nor any other such one, can come up to the wisdom 2 Peter 3:15 of the blessed and glorified Paul. He, when among you, accurately and steadfastly taught the word of truth in the presence of those who were then alive. And when absent from you, he wrote you a letter, which, if you carefully study, you will find to be the means of building you up in that faith which has been given you, and which, being followed by hope, and preceded by love towards God, and Christ, and our neighbour, is the mother of us all. Galatians 4:26 For if any one be inwardly possessed of these graces, he has fulfilled the command of righteousness, since he that has love is far from all sin.

The love of money is the root of all evils. Since we know that we brought nothing into the world and can take nothing out of it, let us put on the armor of righteousness. Let us first teach ourselves to live by the Lord's commandments. Then teach your wives to live in the faith they have been given, in love and purity, tenderly loving their own husbands with complete honesty, and loving everyone else equally with complete moral purity. Train your children to know and fear God. Teach the widows to be wise concerning the faith of the Lord, to pray constantly for everyone, and to stay far away from all slander, evil speech, false testimony, love of money, and every kind of evil. They should know that they are God's altar, that He sees everything clearly, and that nothing is hidden from Him—not our thoughts, not our inner reflections, not even one of the hidden things of the heart.

But the love of money is the root of all evils. 1 Timothy 6:10 Knowing, therefore, that as we brought nothing into the world, so we can carry nothing out, 1 Timothy 6:7 let us arm ourselves with the armour of righteousness; Ephesians 6:11 and let us teach, first of all, ourselves to walk in the commandments of the Lord. Next, [teach] your wives [to walk] in the faith given to them, and in love and purity tenderly loving their own husbands in all truth, and loving all [others] equally in all chastity; and to train up their children in the knowledge and fear of God. Teach the widows to be discreet as respects the faith of the Lord, praying continually 1 Thessalonians 5:17 for all, being far from all slandering, evil-speaking, false-witnessing, love of money, and every kind of evil; knowing that they are the altar of God, that He clearly perceives all things, and that nothing is hid from Him, neither reasonings, nor reflections, nor any one of the secret things of the heart.

Since God is not mocked, we must live in a way that honors His commandment and glory. Deacons should likewise be blameless before His righteousness, because they serve God and Christ, not human beings. They must not be slanderers or speak with a double tongue, and they must not love money. Instead, they should be self-controlled in everything, compassionate, hardworking, and live according to the truth of the Lord, who served everyone. If we please Him in this present world, we will also receive the world to come, just as He promised to raise us from the dead. And if we live in a way that is worthy of Him, we will also rule with Him, as long as we believe. Young men should also be blameless in everything, taking special care to maintain purity and restraining themselves from every kind of evil as if held back by a bridle. It is good for them to be cut off from the desires of this world, since every desire wars against the spirit. Neither those who commit sexual immorality, nor the effeminate, nor those who abuse themselves with mankind will inherit the kingdom of God, nor will those who do inconsistent and shameful things. Therefore, it is necessary to avoid all these things and to submit to the presbyters and deacons as to God and Christ. Virgins must also live with a blameless and pure conscience.

Knowing, then, that God is not mocked, Galatians 6:7 we ought to walk worthy of His commandment and glory. In like manner should the deacons be blameless before the face of His righteousness, as being the servants of God and Christ, and not of men. They must not be slanderers, double-tongued, 1 Timothy 3:8 or lovers of money, but temperate in all things, compassionate, industrious, walking according to the truth of the Lord, who was the servant Matthew 20:28 of all. If we please Him in this present world, we shall receive also the future world, according as He has promised to us that He will raise us again from the dead, and that if we live worthily of Him, we shall also reign together with Him, 2 Timothy 2:12 provided only we believe. In like manner, let the young men also be blameless in all things, being especially careful to preserve purity, and keeping themselves in, as with a bridle, from every kind of evil. For it is well that they should be cut off from the lusts that are in the world, since every lust wars against the spirit; 1 Peter 2:11 and neither fornicators, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, shall inherit the kingdom of God, 1 Corinthians 6:9-10 nor those who do things inconsistent and unbecoming. Wherefore, it is needful to abstain from all these things, being subject to the presbyters and deacons, as unto God and Christ. The virgins also must walk in a blameless and pure conscience.

Presbyters should be compassionate and merciful toward everyone. They should bring back those who have wandered away, visit all who are sick, and not neglect widows, orphans, or the poor. Instead, they should always provide what is right in God's sight and in the sight of people. They must avoid all anger, favoritism, and unjust judgment. They must stay far away from all greed, must not be quick to believe evil reports about anyone, and must not be harsh in their judgments, since we all owe a debt of sin. If we ask the Lord to forgive us, we should also forgive others ourselves, because we are before the eyes of our Lord and God. We must all appear at the judgment seat of Christ and each give an account of ourselves. Therefore, let us serve Him with fear and complete reverence, just as He Himself commanded us and as the apostles who preached the Gospel to us and the prophets who foretold the Lord's coming have taught us. Let us be eager to pursue what is good, keeping ourselves away from things that cause offense, from false brothers, and from those who hypocritically bear the Lord's name and lead foolish people into error.

And let the presbyters be compassionate and merciful to all, bringing back those that wander, visiting all the sick, and not neglecting the widow, the orphan, or the poor, but always providing for that which is becoming in the sight of God and man; Romans 12:17; 2 Corinthians 8:31 abstaining from all wrath, respect of persons, and unjust judgment; keeping far off from all covetousness, not quickly crediting [an evil report] against any one, not severe in judgment, as knowing that we are all under a debt of sin. If then we entreat the Lord to forgive us, we ought also ourselves to forgive; Matthew 6:12-14 for we are before the eyes of our Lord and God, and we must all appear at the judgment-seat of Christ, and must every one give an account of himself. Romans 14:10-12; 2 Corinthians 5:10 Let us then serve Him in fear, and with all reverence, even as He Himself has commanded us, and as the apostles who preached the Gospel unto us, and the prophets who proclaimed beforehand the coming of the Lord [have alike taught us]. Let us be zealous in the pursuit of that which is good, keeping ourselves from causes of offense, from false brethren, and from those who in hypocrisy bear the name of the Lord, and draw away vain men into error.

Anyone who does not confess that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is antichrist, and anyone who does not confess the testimony of the cross is of the devil. And anyone who twists the oracles of the Lord to suit his own desires and says there is neither a resurrection nor a judgment is the firstborn of Satan. Therefore, abandoning the empty ideas of many people and their false teachings, let us return to the word that has been handed down to us from the beginning. Let us be watchful in prayer and continue steadfastly in fasting, asking in our prayers that the all-seeing God would not lead us into temptation, as the Lord has said: The spirit truly is willing, but the flesh is weak.

For whosoever does not confess that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh, is antichrist; 1 John 4:3 and whosoever does not confess the testimony of the cross, is of the devil; and whosoever perverts the oracles of the Lord to his own lusts, and says that there is neither a resurrection nor a judgment, he is the first-born of Satan. Wherefore, forsaking the vanity of many, and their false doctrines, let us return to the word which has been handed down to us from Jude 3 the beginning; watching unto prayer, 1 Peter 4:7 and persevering in fasting; beseeching in our supplications the all-seeing God not to lead us into temptation, Matthew 6:13; Matthew 26:41 as the Lord has said: The spirit truly is willing, but the flesh is weak. Matthew 26:41; Mark 14:38

Let us continue to persevere in our hope and in the earnest of our righteousness, which is Jesus Christ, who carried our sins in His own body on the tree, who committed no sin, and no deceit was found in His mouth, but who endured all things for us so that we might live in Him. Let us therefore imitate His patience, and if we suffer for His name's sake, let us glorify Him. For He has given us this example in Himself, and we have believed this to be true.

Let us then continually persevere in our hope, and the earnest of our righteousness, which is Jesus Christ, who bore our sins in His own body on the tree, 1 Peter 2:24 who did no sin, neither was guile found in His mouth, 1 Peter 2:22 but endured all things for us, that we might live in Him. 1 John 4:9 Let us then be imitators of His patience; and if we suffer Acts 5:41; 1 Peter 4:16 for His name's sake, let us glorify Him. For He has set us this example 1 Peter 2:21 in Himself, and we have believed that such is the case.

I urge all of you, therefore, to obey the word of righteousness and to practice complete patience, like what you have seen demonstrated before you, not only in the blessed Ignatius, Zosimus, and Rufus, but also in others among you, and in Paul himself, and the rest of the apostles. Do this with confidence that all these people have not run in vain, but in faith and righteousness, and that they are now in their rightful place in the presence of the Lord, with whom they also suffered. For they did not love this present world, but Him who died for us and was raised again by God from the dead for our sake.

I exhort you all, therefore, to yield obedience to the word of righteousness, and to exercise all patience, such as you have seen [set] before your eyes, not only in the case of the blessed Ignatius, and Zosimus, and Rufus, but also in others among yourselves, and in Paul himself, and the rest of the apostles. [This do] in the assurance that all these have not run Philippians 2:16; Galatians 2:2 in vain, but in faith and righteousness, and that they are [now] in their due place in the presence of the Lord, with whom also they suffered. For they loved not this present world, but Him who died for us, and for our sakes was raised again by God from the dead.

Stand firm in these things, and follow the Lord's example: be strong and unchangeable in the faith, love the brotherhood, and be devoted to one another, united in the truth, showing the Lord's gentleness in how you treat each other, and looking down on no one. When you can do good, don't delay, because giving to the poor saves from death. All of you submit to one another, keeping your conduct above reproach among the Gentiles, so that you may receive praise for your good works and the Lord's name will not be blasphemed because of you. But woe to the one through whom the Lord's name is blasphemed! Therefore, teach self-control to everyone, and demonstrate it in your own conduct as well.

Stand fast, therefore, in these things, and follow the example of the Lord, being firm and unchangeable in the faith, loving the brotherhood, 1 Peter 2:17 and being attached to one another, joined together in the truth, exhibiting the meekness of the Lord in your intercourse with one another, and despising no one. When you can do good, defer it not, because alms delivers from death. Tobit 4:10, Tobit 12:9 Be all of you subject one to another 1 Peter 5:5 having your conduct blameless among the Gentiles, 1 Peter 2:12 that you may both receive praise for your good works, and the Lord may not be blasphemed through you. But woe to him by whom the name of the Lord is blasphemed! Isaiah 52:5 Teach, therefore, sobriety to all, and manifest it also in your own conduct.

I am deeply grieved for Valens, who was once a presbyter among you, because he understands so little about the position that was given to him in the Church. Therefore, I urge you to stay away from greed and to be pure and truthful. Stay away from every kind of evil. For if a man cannot control himself in these matters, how can he command others to do so? If a man does not keep himself from greed, he will be corrupted by idolatry and will be judged as one of the pagans. But which of us does not know about the Lord's judgment? Don't we know that the saints will judge the world, as Paul teaches? But I have neither seen nor heard of anything like this among you, among whom the blessed Paul worked, and who are praised at the beginning of his letter. For he boasts about you in all those churches that alone knew the Lord at that time; but we in Smyrna had not yet known Him. Therefore, brothers, I am deeply grieved for him, Valens, and his wife. May the Lord grant them true repentance! Be moderate in how you deal with this matter, and do not treat such people as enemies, but call them back as suffering and wandering members, so that you may save your whole body. For by doing this, you will build yourselves up.

I am greatly grieved for Valens, who was once a presbyter among you, because he so little understands the place that was given him [in the Church]. I exhort you, therefore, that you abstain from covetousness, and that you be chaste and truthful. Abstain from every form of evil. 1 Thessalonians 5:22 For if a man cannot govern himself in such matters, how shall he enjoin them on others? If a man does not keep himself from covetousness, he shall be defiled by idolatry, and shall be judged as one of the heathen. But who of us are ignorant of the judgment of the Lord? Do we not know that the saints shall judge the world? 1 Corinthians 6:2 as Paul teaches. But I have neither seen nor heard of any such thing among you, in the midst of whom the blessed Paul laboured, and who are commended in the beginning of his Epistle. For he boasts of you in all those Churches which alone then knew the Lord; but we [of Smyrna] had not yet known Him. I am deeply grieved, therefore, brethren, for him (Valens) and his wife; to whom may the Lord grant true repentance! And be then moderate in regard to this matter, and do not count such as enemies, 2 Thessalonians 3:15 but call them back as suffering and straying members, that you may save your whole body. For by so acting you shall edify yourselves. 1 Corinthians 12:26

I trust that you are well versed in the Sacred Scriptures and that nothing is hidden from you, but I have not yet been granted this privilege. It is declared in these Scriptures, Be angry, and sin not, and, Let not the sun go down upon your wrath. Happy is the one who remembers this, which I believe is the case with you. But may the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, and Jesus Christ Himself, who is the Son of God and our everlasting High Priest, build you up in faith and truth, and in all meekness, gentleness, patience, long-suffering, forbearance, and purity. And may He grant you a lot and portion among His saints, and to us with you, and to all who are under heaven who will believe in our Lord Jesus Christ and in His Father, who raised Him from the dead. Pray for all the saints. Pray also for kings and rulers and princes, and for those who persecute and hate you, and for the enemies of the cross, so that your fruit may be evident to all and that you may be perfect in Him.

For I trust that you are well versed in the Sacred Scriptures, and that nothing is hid from you; but to me this privilege is not yet granted. It is declared then in these Scriptures, Be angry, and sin not, and, Let not the sun go down upon your wrath. Ephesians 4:26 Happy is he who remembers this, which I believe to be the case with you. But may the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, and Jesus Christ Himself, who is the Son of God, and our everlasting High Priest, build you up in faith and truth, and in all meekness, gentleness, patience, long-suffering, forbearance, and purity; and may He bestow on you a lot and portion among His saints, and on us with you, and on all that are under heaven, who shall believe in our Lord Jesus Christ, and in His Father, who raised Him from the dead. Galatians 1:1 Pray for all the saints. Pray also for kings, 1 Timothy 2:2 and potentates, and princes, and for those that persecute and hate you, Matthew 5:44 and for the enemies of the cross, that your fruit may be manifest to all, and that you may be perfect in Him.

Both you and Ignatius wrote to me that if anyone traveled from here to Syria, he should carry your letter with him. I will take care of this request if I find a suitable opportunity, either personally or through someone else acting on my behalf, so that your wish may be fulfilled. The epistles of Ignatius that he wrote to us, along with all the rest of his epistles that we have with us, we have sent to you as you requested. They are attached to this letter, and through them you may greatly benefit, for they deal with faith and patience and all things that contribute to edification in our Lord. If you have obtained any more reliable information about Ignatius himself and those who were with him, please be kind enough to share it with us.

Both you and Ignatius wrote to me, that if any one went [from this] into Syria, he should carry your letter with him; which request I will attend to if I find a fitting opportunity, either personally, or through some other acting for me, that your desire may be fulfilled. The Epistles of Ignatius written by him to us, and all the rest [of his Epistles] which we have by us, we have sent to you, as you requested. They are subjoined to this Epistle, and by them you may be greatly profited; for they treat of faith and patience, and all things that tend to edification in our Lord. Any more certain information you may have obtained respecting both Ignatius himself, and those that were with him, have the goodness to make known to us.

I have written these things to you through Crescens, whom I have recommended to you up to now and continue to recommend. He has conducted himself blamelessly among us, and I believe he will do the same among you. Also, when his sister comes to you, you should hold her in high regard. May you be safe in the Lord Jesus Christ. Grace be with all of you. Amen.

These things I have written to you by Crescens, whom up to the present time I have recommended unto you, and do now recommend. For he has acted blamelessly among us, and I believe also among you. Moreover, you will hold his sister in esteem when she comes to you. Be safe in the Lord Jesus Christ. Grace be with you all. Amen.