Chapter XIX.—Praise of the martyr Polycarp.
This, then, is the account of the blessed Polycarp, who, being the twelfth that was mar-
tyred in Smyrna (reckoning those also of Philadelphia), yet occupies a place of his own136
in the memory of all men, insomuch that he is everywhere spoken of by the heathen them-
selves. 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.137
136 Literally, “is alone remembered.”
137 Several additions are here made. One ms. has, “and the all-holy and life-giving Spirit;” while the old Latin
version reads, “and the Holy Spirit, by whom we know all things.”
Chapter XIX.—Praise of the martyr Polycarp.
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Chapter XIX.—Praise of the martyr Polycarp.