ANF01. The Apostolic Fathers with Justin Martyr and Irenaeus

Chapter XVIII.—The body of Polycarp is burned.

The centurion then, seeing the strife excited by the Jews, placed the body⁴⁶⁸⁴⁶⁸    Or, “him.” 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 purified⁴⁶⁹⁴⁶⁹    Or, “more tried.” 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 anniversary⁴⁷⁰⁴⁷⁰    Literally, “the birth-day.” of his martyrdom, both in memory of those who have already finished their course,⁴⁷¹⁴⁷¹    Literally, “been athletes.” and for the exercising and preparation of those yet to walk in their steps.