THE ENCYCLICAL EPISTLE OF THE CHURCH AT SMYRNA
CONCERNING THE MARTYRDOM OF THE HOLY POLYCARP.
HE church of God which sojourns at Smyrna, to the church of God sojourning in Philomelium[1] and to all the congregations[2] of the holy and catholic church in every place: Mercy, peace, and love from God the Father, and our Lord Jesus Christ, be multiplied.
Chap. i.—Subject of which we write.
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.
