Abridgment of the Book of Acts and Monuments by Timothy Bright

The first Persecution.

THe first was stirred up by Nero Domitius, the 6. Emperor: about the yere 67. [ 67] Whose cruelty was such against Christians, that he had neither regard of sex, condition of life, or age: so that open streets were spread with the dead carcases of Christians. He caused persecution throughout all the provinces of the Romaine empire: and endeavored utterly to abolish the name of Christians.

In that persecution, Peter was crucified, his head downward: himself requiring it should be so, as unworthy to be in all manner executed like Christ Jesus. The cause was thought to be the revenge of the death of Simon Magus: who pretending to the people of Rome, to flee from y ^e mount Capitolinus up into heavē, by the prayer of Peter, was brought headlong down: wherewith his legs & joints being broken, he died. At that time also, Peters wife suffered, being much encouraged by the words of her husband Peter, whiles he hanged upon the cross. Under the same Nero, Paul was beheaded in the 14. year of Nero, the same day that Peter was crucified, and was buried in the way of Ostia. But others (as Prudentius in his Peristephano ) writeth that they were put to death in one day: but Paul a year after Peter.

The second Persecution.

THe Church having had some rest under Vespasian, Domitian (brother to Titus ) moved, (not long after) the 2. persecution. He put to death all y ^e nephews of Judah, called the Lord's brother, and caused to be sought out and slain, all that could be found of the stock of David: as Vespasian also did before him: least yet he were to come of the stock of David, that should enjoy the kingdom. In the time of this tirant, Simeon, Bishop of Jerusalem, after other torments, was crucified to death: whom Iustus afterward succeeded in that bishopric.

This Tyrant exiled John the Apostle and Evangelist, into Patmos, an. 97. [ 97] And under Pertinax he was released, and came to Ephesus, anno 100. [ 100] where he continued until the time of Traianus, and there governed the Church in Asia: where also he wrote his gospel. And so lived til the yere 68. which was the yere of his age 99. Euseb.

Flauia, daughter to Flauius Clemens, one of the Roman Consuls, suffered for the name of the Lord Jesus: and was (with many other banished out of Rome, into the I will Pontia. Euseb. lib. 3

A remnant of the flock of David as yet remained: who being brought to Domitian to be slain, and he percyuing them to be poor, and understanding from them, that the kingdom of Christ should not be a worldly, but an heauenuenlie kingdom, let them go, and stayed the persecution. They (being dismissed) had afterward the government of Churches: and so continued in peace till the time of Traianus. Egesip. & Euseb. lib. 3. cap. 20.

In these persecutions no kind of torment was omitted, that could be devised against the Christians: and no kind of slander kept back, that might impair their credit, their bodies (after death) not being suffered to be buried: and yet the Church did daily more, and more, increase.

Euaristus Bishop of Rome next to Clement, succeeded in the third yere of Traianus, and suffered the xii. yere of his Rain.

Alexander, who succeeded Euaristus, converted a great part of the Senators of Rome to the faith. Among whom, one Hermes, a great man in Rome, whose son being dead, he raised to life, and restored sight to his maid being blind. Which Adrianus, the Emperor hearing of, sent word to Aurelianus Governor of Rome, to apprehend Alexander, with Euentus, and Theodulus, otherwise called Theodorus, his two Deacons, and Hermes, to committee them to Warde, with Quirinus the Tribune, whose daughter named Albina, he cured: which moved Quirinus, with all his house to be baptized, and suffered also for the faith of Christ.

In the second yere of Hadrian, Aurelianus took Alexander, with Hermes, his wife, children, and whole household, 1250. and threw them into prison, and not long after, burnt them all in a Furnace. Whose cruelty being rebuked by Theodulus, another Deacon of Alexander, caused also unto himself the same martyrdom. Quirinus the same time (as saith Antoninus ) having first his tongue cut out, then his hands and feet, afterward was beheaded, and cast to the dogs.

The third Persecution.

BEtwixt the second persecution and the third, was but one yere, under the Emperor Nerua. After whom succeeded Traianus, who raised the third persecution: which was so grievous, that Plinius Secundus (moved with compassion) being himself an Infidel, wrote to the Emperor, and certified him that so many thousands were put to death without cause: saving that they used to gather themselves together before day, to sing hymns to a certain God, whom they worshipped, called Christ. Whereupon the persecutions were greatly alaied.

Certain Sectaries there were of the Jews that accused Simeon then B. of Jerusalem, & son of Cleophas, to come of the stock of David, and that he was a Christian. Wherevpon he was scourged by Attalus commandment then Proconsull, during the space of many days together, being of the age of 120. and with great admiration given of his constancy, he ended his course upon the cross.

Under this Traiane which next followed Nerua, among others, Phocas B. of Pōtus suffered, whō Traianus, because he refused to do sacrifice to Neptune, cast into a hot furnace, and after into a scalding bath. Anton. Eginl. fascic. temporum.

In the same persecutiō suffered also Sulpitius & Seruilianus two Romans, whose wives are said to be Emphrosina & Theodora: whom Salma did convert to the faith, and afterward were also martyred. This Salma was beheaded of C. Lepidus, the governor, in the mount Auentine, in the days of Hadrian: under whom also suffered Seraphia a virgin of Antioch. Moreover in this time of Traiane suffered Nereus and Achilleus at Rome: about which time also one Sagaris suffered martyrdom in Asia, Seruius Paulus being then Proconsull in that province.

In this time suffered Ignatius. Some say that he being sent from Syria to Rome, was givē to wild beasts to be devoured: passing through Asia he confirmed the churches, and coming to Smirna where Polycarpus was, he wrote diverse epistles, one to Ephesus, another to Magnesia being at Meander, another to Trallis. He now being judged to y ^e beasts, & hearing the Lions roar: I am the wheat or grain (said he) of Christ, I shall be ground with the teeth of wild beasts, that I may be found pure bread. He suffered the 11. year of the reign of Traianus. Euseb. & Hieronimus.

About this time many thousands died for the faith: among them one Publius bishop of Athens.

Next to Traianus succeeded Hadrian, under whom suffered Alexander bishop of Rome, with his two Deacons Euentius and Theodorus, also Hermes and Quirinus with their families.

In this time of Hadrian, Zenon, a noble man of Rome with 10023 were slain for Christ. Henricus de Erfodia & Bergomensis lib. 8. make mention of 10000. in the days of this Hadrian, to be crucified in the mount Ararat, crowned with crowns of thorn, & thrust into the sides with sharp darts, after the example of the Lord's passiō: whose captains were Achaicus, Heliades, Theodorus, and Carcerius, &c.

Under Hadrian suffered also Eustachius, a captain whō Traianus had sent in times past against the Barbarians, & having now subdued them, was honorably met in his journey of Hadrian the Emperor himself: who first by y ^e way would do sacrifice to Apollo for the victory, willing Eustachius to do also. Which he refusing (not withstanding all means to draw him to it) was brought to Rome: where with his wife & children he suffered martyrdom under the same Hadrian.

Faustinus & Iobita citizens of the city of Brixia, suffered martyrdom with grievous torments. At the sight whereof one Caelocerius seeing their so great patience in such torments, cried out with these words, Vere magnus Deus christianorum. Verily, great is the God of the Christians. Wherevpon he was presently apprehended, and suffered with them. Ex Ant. Equi.

One Anthia a godly woman (who committed her son Eleutherius to Anicetus Bishop of Rome, to be brought up in the faith,) who was afterward B. of Apulia, was there beheaded with her son Eleutherius Nicephorus.

Under this Hadrian suffered also Iustus, and Pastor, two brethren in a City of Spain called Complutum.

Likewise Symphronissa the wife of Getulus the martyr, with her seven children, is said about the same time to suffer: who first was much and often beaten and scourged, & afterward hanged up by the hair of the head. At last, having an huge stone fastened about her neck, was cast into the river. And after that her seven children, with sundry and diverse kinds of punishments, were martyred by the Tyrants.

Getulus or Getulius was a minister or teacher in the City of Tibur, who with Cerdelis, Amantius, and Primitiuus, by the commandment of Adrian, were condemned to the fire. The names of the seven sons of Symphronissa were, Crescens, Julianus Nemesius, Primitiuus, Justinus, Stateus, and Eugenius: who by the commandment of Adrian, were tied to seven stakes, and so racked with a pulley: and last of all, thrust through, Crescens in the neck, Julianus in the breast, Nemesius in the heart, Primitiuus about the nauell, Justinus cut in every joint of his body, Stateus run through with spears, Eugenius cut asunder from the breast to the lower partes, and then cast into a deep pit, having the name by their idolatrous Priests, entitled Ad septem Biothanatos. After the death of whom Symphronissa the mother did likewise suffer.

• Getulus
  • The children of Symphorosa.
    Crescens.
  • Julianus.
  • Nemesius.
  • Primitiuus.
  • Justinus.
  • Stateas.
  • Eugenius.
• Cerdelis
• Amantius
• Primitiuus

Sophia with her two children Serapia and Salma did suffer under some tyrant about the the year 130. [ 130]

While Hadrian the Emperor was at Athens, he purposed to visit the city of Elewsina: which he did, where he sacrificing to the Gentiles gods, gave free liberty to kill the Christians whosoever would. Wherevpon Quadratus Bishoppe of Athens, and Aristides a philosopher of Athens, and another Serenus Gramus, a man of great nobility, wrote Apologies for the Christians unto the Emperor, with such eloquence and learning, laying out their innocence, that he directed his letters to Minutius Fundanus Proconsul of Asia, willing him from henceforth to exercise no more cruelty upon the Christians, nor to condemn them for that cause. Thus the Christians had some quiet for a time.

After Hadrian, succeeded Antoninus Pius, who although he moved no persecution against the Christians, yet the tumultuous rage of the heathen did not cease to disquiet the people of God. The Emperors affection might appear by a letter or edict of his to the Commons of Asia, to stay their rage against Christians, except they had committed anything against the laws of the Empire, willing them to consider the Christians patience in their torments, and boldness in times of Earthquakes, and tempests, when as other tremble and quake for fear. This edict was proclaimed at Ephesus in the public assembly of all Asia. So by this means the tempest of persecution in those days began to be appeased.

After Antoninus Pius, M. Antoninus Verus succeeded with his brother Lucius, about the year 162. [ 162] These were sharp and fierse against the Christians, and after Nero, moved the fourth persecution.

The fourth Persecution.

IN Antoninus Verus time, suffered many Christians with diverse kinds of torments: namely at Smyrna, some of thē were whipped, that the inward arteries & veins appeared, even their very intrailes and bowels were seen, & after that were set upon sharp shells, taken out of the sea, edged & sharp, and certain nails & thorns laid for the martyrs to go vpō sharpened & pointed, called obelisci. And lastly were they thrown to beasts to be devoured. Among whō one Germanicus very constantly suffered, to the admiration of y ^e enemies. But most famous above y ^e rest, was the martirdom of Polycarpus, disciple to the Apostles and 86. years of age, & who had served in the ministry about the space of 70. years, and was placed of S. John in Smirna, whose disciple he was. He suffered about the year of our Lord 170. [ 170] and in the 7. year of Antoninus Verus. The manner of his death and martyrdom was thus. These persecutions being begun in Smyrna, Polycarpus was persuaded by certain y ^t were about him, to convey himself away, and to hide him in a Village not far from the City, which he did, and there abiding with a few more of his company, was night and day in supplication, for the peace of the Congregation.

Three days before his apprehension, he saw in a vision by night, the bed set on fire under him, and suddenly to be consumed, And when he waked, he interpreted it, that he should suffer martyrdom by fire. At the last (being found by the pursuers, & understanding y ^t they were armed) he came frō the chamber where he was, & entertained thē w ^t cheerful countenance, and made them dine, and required that he might have one hours respite to make his prayers: which being granted him, he did it in such sort, as they which heard him were astonied. His prayers being ended, they brought him to the city upon an Ass on a solemn feast day, there met him Irenarchus, Herodes, and his father Nicetes: which causing him to come up into the chariot where they sat, persuaded him to do sacrifice. Which when he refused, w ^t rough words they molested him, and thrust him, going down the chariot, that he might hurt or break his legs: but he went merrily on to the place appointed. To whom there came a voice from heaven that comforted him, & bad him be of good cheer, as he was going to the place of judgment. Whither when he came, the Proconsul dissuaded him from the faith, and willed him to say with him and the rest, Destroy these naughty men. Then Polycarpus beholding with constant countenance the whole multitude, and giving a great sigh, looked up to heaven and said: Thou thou it is that wilt destroy these wicked men, meaning the Lord. Then the proconsul thus being earnest with him said unto him, take thine oath, and I will discharge thee: Deste Christ Polycarpus answered, 86. years have I been his servant, yet in all this time hath he not so much as once hurt me, how then may I speak evil of my sovereign Lord and king, which hath thus preserved me. Then the Proconsul used all manner of threatenings against him: which when they could not prevail, Polycarpus still denying with great constancy, Philip the Governor of Asia, was commanded to let lose the Lion to Polycarpus: who made answer, that he might not so do, because he had his pray already. Then the people required w ^t one voice, that he would burn Polycarpus alive. Which was performed. And having made himself ready to the stake, they would have nailed him thereto with Iron hoopes, but he said: let me alone as I am, for he that hath given me strength to suffer and abide the fire, shall also give power, that w ^t out this prouisiō I shall abide, and not stir in this fire. Which when they heard, they only bound him: who having given thanks unto God, and testified his faith, the tormentors put fire unto him, which seemed to those that were beholders, to compass the body like a veil, which in y ^e midst thereof seemed like gold and silver, tried in the fire, and yielded a pleasant smell Thus the fire not consuming his body, one of the Tormentors thrust him in with a Sworde. Whereafter, so great a quantity of blood issued out of his body, that the fire was quenched therewith. The body afterward was taken and burned, as their manner was to do. And this was the ende of that worthy man.

At that same time suffered also at Smirna twelve other, that came from Philadelphia, with diverse other: as, Metrodorus, a minister, and another worthy man named Pionius, who (after grievous torments) were burned.

After these, suffered Carpus, Papylus, and Agathonica, a woman, who were put to death at Pergamopolis in Asia, Euseb. l. 4. c. 7.

In Rome suffered Felicitas w ^t her seven children: whose names were, Ianuarius, Felix, Philip, Siluanus, Alexander, Vitalis and Martialis. Of which company, Ianuarius (after he was whipped with rods) was pressed to death with leaden waightes. Felix and Philip had their brains beaten out with maules. Siluanus was cast down headlong, and had his neck broken. Alexander, Vitalis, and Martialis, were beheaded. Last of all, the mother was slain with the sword. Ex Suppl.

Under this M. Antoninus suffered also the worthy man, and learned Philosopher Justinus, born at Neapolis in Palestine. His father was Priscus Baicus. He wrote Apologies: First to the Senate of Rome, after to Antonius Pius, the Emperor. He wrote also to Vrbinus, Lieftenant of the City. He prevailed so with Antonius Pius, that he stayed the persecution in Asia. This man was accused by Crescens a Cynike philosopher, whom he had vanquished in disputation: in revenge whereof he procured his death, in the yere 154. [ 154] in the xiii. yere of the Reign of Antoninus the Emperor.

Under the same Antoninus, suffered also Ptolomeus, & Lucius, for confessing Christ, in a City of Egypt, called Alexandria. Ptolomeus was accused by a Centurion, subornne thereunto by a vicious Infidel, whose wife had been also lewd, but converted by Ptolomeus, and thereupon departing from her vicious husband, he revengeth himself upon her Instructor: who being brought before Vrbinus the Judge, and condemned to suffer death, Lucius a Christian, blaming the Judge, and justifying the innocence of Ptolomeus, was with him also (without further examination) martyred.

In the reign of this Tirant, suffered also one Concordus, a Minister in the City of Spoletum, because he would not do sacrifice to Jupiter, but spit in his face: wherefore (after many and sundry torments) he was beheaded.

It is reported that diverse other Martyrs suffered under this Antoninus Verus: as, Symmetrius, Florellus, Pontianus, Alexander, Gaius, Epipodus, Victor. Corona, Marcellus, and Valerianus. Who (because they would not do sacrifice to Idols) ended their lives by the sword.

Under this Tyrant suffered diverse Martyrs at Vienna, and Lions, two Cities in France. Among whom, Vetius, Zacharias, Sanctus, Maturus, Attalus, Blandina, Alexander, and Alcibiades, are chiefly renowned.

Vetius Epagathus, for reproving the cruel sentence of the Judge, given against the Christians, and making an Apology for them, was martyred. He was called by the faithful (being but a young man) the Advocate of the Christians.

Sanctus was Deacon of the Congregation at Vienna: Maturus was but a little before baptized: Attalus was borne at Pergama, who was the foundation and pillar of that congregatiō. Blandina weried the tormentors with hir patient suffering. Likewise did Sanctus, who in his tormenting being asked his name, his city, his kindred, he answered to all questions, I am a Christian. With these suffered one Bibledes a woman, who had denied Christ, & being tormented to the end she might utter some wickedness of the Christians, she confessed Christ again, continued constant, and was martyred with the rest.

At that time Photinus deacon to the B. of Lions, about 90. years old, being first sore beaten, was cast into prison, and there died within two days after.

Maturus and Sanctus were brought again to torment, and with them Blandina and Attalus, yet, notwithstanding exquisite and strange devised torments, they continued constant in the faith. Blandina was fastened upon a stake, & cast to beasts to be devoured, but no beast would touch her: whereupon they took her down, and put her in prison till another time.

Attalus was brought forth again, with one Alexander a Phrygian, and a Physician: who because he encouraged the Christians standing before the Judge, was apprehended, and suffered most grievous torments most patiently, without change of countenance, and died, broiled in an Iron chair.

After this (being the last day of the spectacle) Blandina again, and one Ponticus, a child of fifteen years old, was brought forth. The child died constant, with extremity of torment. Blandina (after diverse most exquisite torments, as whips, gridiron, and wild beasts) was at the last, cast into a net, & thrown to a wild Bull, and so was gored to death. Neither did their rage cease against the dead bodies: which they would not suffer to be buried, but caused them to be watched, least they should be put in grave. The causes why these persecutions were the more sharp, was because some of the Ethnics being servants to the Christians, were compelled by threatenings to fain against them, that they kept the feasts of Thiestes and incest of Oedipus, with other most heinous crimes.

To these Emperors did Melito bishop of Sardis exhibit Apologies for the Christians, learned and eloquent. So did Claudius Apollinaris bishop of Hierapolis, like as Quadratus and Aristides did before to the Emperor Hadrian. So that whether it were by that means, or through the writing of Athenagoras a philosopher, & a Legate of y ^e Christians, it is certain y ^t the persecutiō the same time was stayed. Others think it came by a miracle wrought in the Emperors campe. For what time the two brethren Emperors joined together, and warred against the Quades, Vandals, Sarmates, and Germans, when their soldiers wanting water five days together, and by means thereof were like to perish: in this distress, a legion of the Christian souldidiers withdrew themselves, and prayed, whereby they obtained showers and sweet rain, and the enemies were terrified with lightnings and hail, and so discomfited and put to flight. Wherevpon the Emperor wrote to diverse of his Governors, that they should give thanks to the Christians, and give them peace: of whom came the victory and preservation to him and all his people.

In the yere 175. [ 175] succeeded the former Lucius, Antoninus Commodus, son to Verus, who reigned xiii. years. In whose time (as some think) by the favor of Martia, the Emperors Concubine, who favored the Christians, persecution slaked. By which means, many noble personages of Rome, embraced the Gospel. Among whō was one Apollonius, who being maliciously accused by Seuerus his servant, (notwithstanding the false accusation of his Accuser) being detected, and he for that crime having his legs broken, was nevertheless, driven to make confession of his faith, and for the same also beheaded by an ancient Law, that no Christian ought to be released without recantation.

This Emperor on his birth day, with the people of Rome assembled together, made sacrifice to Hercules and Jupiter, causing it to be cried through out y ^e city, that Hercules was the patron of the city. At which time there were in the city Vincentius, Eusebius, Peregrinus, Potentianus, learned men, and instructors of the people: who converting the Gentiles in diverse places, and hearing hereof, preached and persuaded against the same, and converted one Julius a Senator, with others to the faith. Whereof Commodus hearing caused them all to be first tormented, & then to be pressed to death with leaden weights, saving that Julius was beaten to death with cuggels, at the commandment of Vitellus the Master of the Soldiers.

Peregrinus had been sent before of Xistus B. of Rome into the parts of France, to supply the room of a teacher, where the horrible persecutions had made wast. Who having there established the Churches, returned home again to Rome, and finished his days with martyrdom.

Xistus or Sixtus was the sixth bishop of Rome after Peter, and governed that ministry ten years.

To Sixtus succeeded Telesphorus, and was bishop there eleven years, and died in the first year of Antoninus Pius, being martyred the year 138. [ 138] After him succeeded Hyginus, and died a martyr anno 142. [ 142] After him followed Pius. After him succeeded Anicetus, Soter, Eleutherius, about the year 180. [ 180]

About this time of Commodus, among others were martyred Serapion B. of Antioch, Egesippus a writer of the ecclesiastical History from Christ's passion to his time. Also Miltiades, who wrote his Apology for Christian religion, as did Melito, Aristides and Quadratus before.

About the same time wrote Heraclitus, who first began to write Annotations and Enarrations upon the New Testament, and Epistles of the Apostles. Also Theophilus bishop of Cesarea, Dionisius bishop of Corinth, a man famously learned, who wrote diverse Epistles to diverse churches: and among other exhorteth Penitus a bishop that he would lay no yoke of chastity on any necessity upon his brethren, but that he would consider the infirmity of other, and bear with it.

About the days of Cōmodus, wrote also Clemens Alexandrinus a man of singular learning. In that time lived also Pantenus, who was the first in Alexandria that professed to read in open school, of whom is thought first to rise the order of Universities in Christendom. He was sent to preach to the Indians by Demetrius bishop of Alexandria.

Now in this tranquility of the Church grew contention among themselves for Easter day, which had been stirred before of Polycarpus & Anicetus. For they of the West church pretending the tradition of Paul and Peter, but in deed being of Hermes and Pius, kept the Sunday after the 14. day of the first month. The Church of Asia following the ordinance of John the Apostle, observed another.

The fifth Persecution.

AFter the death of Commodus reigned Pertinax but few months: after whō succeeded Seuerus, under whom was raised the fifth persecution. He reigned 18. years, and in the first ten was very favorable, afterward through false accusations and suggestions, he caused to be proclaimed, that no Christian should be suffered: whereupon an infinite number were slain, this was about the year 205. [ 205] the crimes objected, were rebellion against the Emperor, Sacrilege, murthering of Infants, incestuous pollutions, eating raw flesh, libidinous cōmixture, worshipping the head of an asse: which is thought to have been raised by the Jews, also for worshipping of the Sun: which rose because either they used daily to sing unto the Lord, or because they used to pray toward the East. But the special matter against them was, that they would not worship Idols. The Presidents and chief under the Emperor of this persecution were, Hilarius, Vigellius, Claudius, Hermianus, ruler of Cappadocia. Celicius, Capella, Vespronius, Demetrius mentioned of Cyprian, and Aquila Judge of Alexandria. The places where these persecutions raged were Africa, Alexandria, Cappadocia, and Carthage. The number infinite: of which the first was Leonides, the father of Origen, who although he were but of the age of seuenteen years, greatly desired to have suffered with his father, had not his mother privily in the night stolen away his garments and his shirt, and so for shame he was constrained to tarry at home: yet he wrote to his father, Take heed to yourself that you turn not your thought and purpose for our sakes

Origen was so toward in knowledge of the scriptures, and all kind of virtue, that his father would diverse times uncover his breast being asleep, and kiss it, giving thanks to God that had made him so happy a Father of so happy a son.

After the death of his father, all the goods being confiscate to the Emperor, he sustained himself, his mother, and six brethren, by keeping a school, till at length he applied himself altogether to the scripture, and profited in the tongues, Hebrew & Greek, which he conferred with other translations, as that of the 70. & found out also other translations which we call the common translations of Aquila, of Symmachus and Theodocian, with which he joined also four other. He wrote to the number of vii. thousand books, the copies whereof he used to sell for three pence a piece and a little more to sustain his living. He had diverse Scholars, as Plutarchus, Serenus his Brother which died both martyrs: Serenus was burned, Heraclitus and Heron were beheadded. Also another Serenus which was beheaded, Rhais; and Potamiena, who was tormented with pitch poured upon her, and martyred with her mother Marcella, and died in the fire. She was put to death by one Basilides, a Captain of the army, who shown her some kindness in repressing the rage of the multitude: wherefore she thanked him and said, she would pray for him. Now this Basilides being required a while after to give an oath in a matter by the Idols, and the Emperor (as the manner of the oath was) refused so to do, confessing himself to be a Christian, and was beheaded for the faith.

At that time, there was one Alexander, who after great torments, escaped alive, and was afterward Bishoppe of Jerusalem, together with Narcissus, who being threescore and three years old, was unwieldy to govern alone. He continued Bishop in Jerusalem 40. years, till the persecution of Decius, and there erected a famous library, where Eusebius had his chiefest help in writing his ecclesiastical history. He wrote also diverse Epistles, and licensed Origen to teach openly in his Church. At length being very aged was brought to Cesarea under Decius, where after his constant confession the second time, he died in prison.

Under Seuerus, suffered also Andoclus, whom Polycarpus had sent before into France: who was apprehended of Seuerus, and first being beaten with bats, was afterward beheaded.

In that time Asclepiades confessed also, and suffered much, and was after ordained Bishop of Antioch, and continued there 7. years.

About the fourth or fifth year Irenaeus with a great multitude beside, were martyred. He was the scholar of Polycarpus. He was appointed Bishop of Lions: and there continued 23. years. In his time, the question of keeping of Easter was renewed between Victor Bishoppe of Rome, and the churches of Asia: and when Victor would have excommunicated them as Schismatikes, Irenaeus, with other brethren of the French Church, wrote unto Victor, to stay his purpose therein, and not to proceed thereto, for such a matter.

Not long after Irenaeus followed Tertullian, about the time of this Seuerus and Antoninus Caracalla, who writ very learned Apologies for the Christians, and confuted all the slanders objected against them. He writ also diverse books: whereof part remain at this day.

Victor succeeded Eleutherius in the bishopric of Rome, and died a Martyr (as some say) after he had sitten ten or xii. years. This Victor was earnest in the matter of Easter, the yere of our Lord 260. [ 260] and would have excommunicated all of the contrary mind, had not Irenaeus dissuaded him. With Victor stood Theophilus, Bishop of Cesarea: Narcissus, of Jerusalem: Irenaeus, of Lions: Palmas, of Pontus: Panthillus, of Corinth: the Bishop of Ostrena, and other more: who agreed to have Easter upon the sunday, because they would differ from the Jews in all things: and partly, because the resurrection of the Lord fell on that day. On the other side were diverse Bishops of Asia. Among whom, the chief was Policrates, Bishop of Ephesus, alleging the example of Philippe the Apostle, with his iii. daughters at Hierapolis: of John the Apostle and Evangelist, at Ephesus: Polycarpus, at Smirna: Thraseas, at Eumenia, Bishop and Martyr. Likewise the example of Sagaris at Laodicea, Bishop and Martyr: holy Papirius, & Melito, at Sardis: beside diverse others. Notwithstanding, Victor proceeded to excommunication, yet by the wise handling of Irenaeus & other, the matter was stayed: who shown, that variāce and difference of Ceremonies, was no strange thing in the Church of God, not only in the day of Easter, but also of fasting, and diverse other usages among the Christians, and yet kept the unity of faith and concord among themselves: and brought forth examples of Telesphorus, Pius, Anicetus, Soter, Eleutherius, and such other.

After Victor, succeeded in the Sea of Rome zephyrinus, in the days of Seuerus, about the yere 203. [ 203] Eusebius saith, he died in the reign of Caracalla, and sat xvij. years. Platina saith that he died under Seuerus, and sat viii. years. And so, Nauclerus. Damasus saith, that he sat xvi. years, and ii. Moneths.

Under this Seuerus suffered also Perpetua, Felicitas, and Rouocatus her brother. Also, Saturninus and Satyrus, brethren, & Secundulus, which were thrown to wild beasts, and of them devoured, in Carthage, and in Africa: saving that Saturninus (being brought again from the beasts) was beheaded, and Secundulus died in prison, about the yere 202 [ 202] Seuerus reigned xviij. years, and was slain at York by the Northern men and Scots, the yere 214. [ 214] Leauing behind him two sons, Bassianus, and Geta.

Which Bassianus, surnamed Carocalla, after he had slain his brother here in Britain, governed the Empire alone the space of six years. After whose death he also (being slain of his servants) succeeded Marianus, with his son Diadumenus, who after they had reigned one yere, were both slain by their own people.

After them succeeded Varius Heliogab who (after he had reigned very viciously ii. years, viii. months) was slain by y ^e soldiers, drawn through the city, & thrown into Tiber. He (having no issue) adopted his heir Aurelius Alexander Seuerus, the son of Mammea. He entered his reign the yere 224. [ 224] and continued xiii. years, well commended for virtue, and favored the Christians.

Mammea, the mother of this Emperor, whō Jerome calleth a devout, & religious womā, hearing of y ^e fame of Origē, sent for him to Antioch: to whō Origē resorted, and (staying a while w ^t the Emperor and his mother) returned again to Alexandria. Thus (having reigned xiii. years) at a commotion in Germany, with his mother Mammea he was slain.

After him succeeded Maximinus, & although the church in the time of Alexander had no open persecution, yet under Judges there were many martyred, because there was no edict to the contrary. As under Almachus, Calixtus B. of Rome, who succeeded Zephyrus above mentioned: and after him Urbanus, who suffered under Alexander Seuerus. Vincentius saith Calixtus was tied to a great stone, and so out of a window was thrown into a ditch. Eusebius saith he sat 5. years, Platina 6. Sabellicus 7. and so Damasus.

After Calixtus followed Urbanus, about the year 227. [ 227] he died a martyr (as Marianus, Scotus, Sabellicus, Nauclerus do hold) in the days of Seuerus after he had governed there, as Damasus & Platina say, four years: as Marianus, eight years. Damasus and Platina witness of him, that he converted diverse Ethnics, among whom were Tiburtius and Valerianus the husband of Cecilia, which being both noble men of Rome, remained constant unto martyrdom.

Under the same Alexander suffered also one Agapitus of the age of fifteen years, who being condemned at Preneste in Italy, because he would not do sacrifice, after other torments, was beheaded. The executor of these punishments was one Antiochus, who while the torments were executing, fell suddenly from his Judicial seat: crying out that all his inward bowels burned within him, & died. Under him also suffered Calepodius a minister of Rome, who was drawn through the city, & cast into Tiber: after him suffered Pammachus a Senator of Rome, with his wife & children, and other men and women, to the number of 42. and with them also another noble Senator named Simplicius: all which together in one day had their heads smitten of, & their hands hanged up in diverse gates of the city.

Under him also suffered Quiritius a noble man of Rome with his mother Julia, with a great number besides: also Tiberius and Valerianus citizens of Rome and brethren, suffered the same time, being first beaten with bats, and after beheaded. Also one Martina a virgin suffered at the same time: but these martyrs are rather to be thought to suffer under Maximinus or Decius.

The sixth Persecution.

MAximinus succeeded Alexander, as is aforesaid the year of our Lord 237. [ 237] Who for the hatred he had to Alexander, raised the sixth persecution, especially against the teachers of the Church: he reigned but three years. In the time of this persecution Origen wrote his book De Martyrio.

After him succeeded Gordian, who was mild towards the Christians, reigned six years, and was slain of Phillip who succeeded him.

In the days of these Emperors above recited, was Pontianus bishop of Rome, who succeeded next after Urbanus about the year 236. [ 237] in the twelfth year of Alexander, according to Eusebius declaring him to sit six years. Damasus and Platius write that he was Bishop nine years and a half, and with Phillip his priest was banished into Sardinia, and there died. But it seemeth he was rather banished under Maximinus, and died in the beginning of the reign of Gordianus.

In these times notable men were raised up to the church, as Philetus Bishop of Antioch, who succeeded Asclepiades above mentioned anno 220. [ 220] and after him Zebenus bishop of the same place anno 231. [ 231] To these may be added Ammonius the Scholemaster of Origen and kinsman of Porphiry the enemy of Christ. In the same times was also Julius Aphricanus the scholar of Origen.

To these may be joined Natalius, who had suffered for the truth, and was seduced by Asclepiodotus and Theodotus (who were y ^e disciples of Theodorus ) to take upon him to be the Bishop of their sect, promising him every month 150. pieces of silver, whereto he yielded. But the Lord in a vision admonished him, whereto he taking no heed, was in a night scourged with Angels, and so confessed his fault, and declared that which had happened unto him, to Zephirinus the Bishop, who with the rest of the congregation admitted him again.

After Pontianus succeeded Anterius. Cōcerning his time writers do greatly vary. Eusebius and Marianus Scotus affirm, that he was Bishop but a month, Damasus twelve years and one month, Volateranus Bergomensis & Henricus Erford three years & one month, Nauclerus one yere and one month.

Next to this Bishop, was Fabianus.

Hippolitus was a martyr: and as Gelasius saith, was bishop of an head City in Arabia, Nicephorus, that he was Bishop of Ostia, a port town near to Rome. He was a great writer, and was about the year 230. [ 230] Prudentius in his Peristephanon, maketh mention of great heaps of martyrs buried by threescore together: and saith, that Hippolitus was drawn with wild horses through fields, dales, and bushes.

After Gordianus, succeeded Philippus, who with Philip his son, governed about the space of six years ann. 246. These Emperors with their families were christened and converted by Fabianus and Origen. He with his son was slain of Decius, one of the Captains, by hatred, as it is thought, because the Emperors had committed their treasures unto Fabianus then Bishop of Rome.

The seventh Persecution.

DEcius having slain the former Emperors invaded the crown the year 250. [ 250] by whom through envy & hatred as is above said, was moved a terrible persecution against the Christians.

Fabian above mentioned, was made Bishoppe of Rome after Anterius, by the flying and lighting of a Dove upon his head in the congregation, which was minded to elect some noble personage of Rome. He sat 13. years, or as other say 14. & was put to death by Decius, who also caused to be proclaimed in all quarters the destruction of Christians.

To this Decius Origen wrote of the rightness of his faith: he continued two and fifty years in great labors of teaching, and writing, and sustained diverse gieuous persecutions, but especially under Decius: under whom having suffered bands, torments, rackings, with bars of iron, dungeons, besides terrible threats of death, and burning, at length was brought to an altar, where a foul filthy Ethiope was appointed to be, and there this choice was offered him, whether he would sacrifice to the Idol, or have his body polluted with that foul and ugly Ethyope. Origen made choice rather to do sacrifice: for the which impiety, he was after excommunicated by the Church. Epiphanius writeth, that he being urged to sacrifice to Idols, and taking the bones in his hand, wherewith the heathen were wont to honor their gods, called upon the Christians to carry them in honor of Christ: which fact the Church of Alexandria misliking, removed him from their communion. Wherevpon Origen driven away with shame, went into Jury, where being in Jerusalem among the congregation, and there requested of the ministers to make some exhortation in the Church, refused a great while so to do: but at length through importunity, he turned the book as though he would have expounded some place of Scripture, and read the verse of the 49. Psalm. But God said to the sinner, why doest thou preach my justifications? and why doest thou take my testament in thy mouth? &c. Which verse having read, he shut the book, and sat down, weeping and wailing, the whole congregation also weeping and lamenting with him.

Soudas saith, Origen was buried at Tirus. Eusebius saith he died under y ^e Emperor Gallus, about the year two hundred fifty and five, [ 255] and the three score and ten years of his age, in great misery and poverty. In the time of Antoninus Carocalla, Origen had a notable man Heracleas his vsher in the school of Alexandria, who after in the tenth year of Alexander, Origen departing unto Cesaria, succeeded him in the government of the school of Alexandria. This Heracleas also succeeded after the death of Demetrius to be Bishop of Alexandria, in the time of the Emperor Gordianus: in which function he continued sixteen years.

After Heracleas, succeeded Dyonisius Alexandrinus. Heracleas was no martyr, but died three years before Decius, anno 250. [ 250] under whom Dionysius Alexandrinus suffered much.

The persecutions under Decius were so cruel, y ^t Niceph. faith, it were as possible to number the sand of the sea, as to recite their names y ^t suffered. Of the which persecution under the Emperor, the chief doers were, Optimus the vnderconsul, Secundianus, Verianus, Marcellinus, &c.

In the time of Decius, Alexander was B. of Jerusalem, where he continued a very aged man about the term of xl. years, till the 1. yere of Decius. At what time (being brought from Jerusalem to Cesarea) he died in prison. After whom succeeded Mezananes, the xxxvj. Bishop of that city, after James the Apostle.

Under this Decius, Babylas, B. of Antioch, who succeeded zebinus, died in prison, which followed after Philetus, an. 232. and sat xii. years. Which Philetus succeeded Asclepiades, after Serapion, an. 214 and sat vii. years.

Babilas, because he resisted a certain Emperor, who had most cruelly slain (against his promise) a kings son, whom he received in Hostage, and would not suffer him to enter the temple of the Christians, was by him put to death.

In the reign of Constantine, afterward Gallus then made overseer of the East parts, caused the body of Babylas to be translated into the suburbs of Antioch called Daphnes: where was an oracle of Apollo, which after the bringing in of the body of Babylas, ceased to give answer, alleging his body to be the cause: and so it continued til the time of Julianus, who therefore caused it to be removed away by the Christians: which was no sooner departed the temple, but the temple was consumed with fire. This Babylas is mentioned of Chrysostom who is like to be another, diverse from him that died. In Decius time Nicephorus in his fifth book, maketh mention of another Babylas besides this that was Bishoppe of Nicomedia, and suffered under Decius.

In these times in the City of Antioch suffered forty Virgins in the days of Decius. In Phrigia suffered one Peter in the Town of Lampsur, under Optimus the Proconsul. In Troada also other martyrs suffered, whose names were, Andrew, Paul, Nichomachus, and Dionisia a Virgin. Also in Babylonia, diverse Christian Confessors were found by Decius, and were led away into Spain, there to be executed.

In the Country of Cappadocia at the city of Cesarea, Germanus, Theophilus, Cesarius, & Vitalis, suffered martyrdom, Likewise Polichronius Bishop of Babylon, and Nestor, in Pāphilia, Bishop of the same place. At Persida, in y ^e Town of Cardala suffered Olimpiades and Maximus. In Tyrus, Anatolia, a Virgin, and Audax, gave their lives for the faith.

In these times, diverse suffered diversely in Alexandria, a whole year before any Proclamation, by reason of a Soothsayer, which stirred up the people. Who first flying upon a Priest, called Metra, apprehended him, and laid upon him with staves and clubbes, and with sharp reeds pricked his face, and eyes, and afterward in the Suburbes stoned him to death. Then took they Quinta, a faithful woman, and bound her feet, and drew her through the streets, upon the hard stones. And so (dashing her against the millstones) and scourging her with whips, slue her in the Suburbes of the City. This done, they spoiled all the Christians, who avoided the City, and took the loss patiently. Among other that were taken there was one Apollonia, an ancient Virgin, whom they brought forth, and dashing all her teeth out of her jaws, made a great fire before the City, threatening to cast her into the same, except she would deny Christ. Whereat she staying a while, as one that would take a pause, suddenly leapt into the midst of the fire, and so was burned.

They also took one Serapion, in his own house, whō having broken almost all the joints of his body, they cast him down from an upper lofte, and so he died. Thus (raging against the Christians) at last they fell at debate among themselves, and so for a time the fury stayed: which was so great, that no place could hide the Christians from the rage of the heathen. Shortly after this, came the Edict of the Emperor against the Christians, whereupon the persecution grew in all places more grievous thā before. In so much, that some revolted voluntarily, & some by imprisonment & torment: Other continued constant to the death: of whom one was Julianus, a man diseased with the gout, & not able to go, but was carried by two men: of whom, the one quickly denied the other.

Cronion, surnamed Eunus, with Julianus the old man, were laid upon Camels, and there scourged, at length cast into the fire for the testimony of Jesus. When y ^e aforesaid were going to martirdom, there was a soldier took parte with them, and so was presently apprehended, & beheaded.

Likewise was one Macer, a Lybian, burned alive, for his confessing of Christ. After these, suffered Epymachus, and Alexander, which having suffered bonds & torments, with rasors and scourges, were burned w ^t iv. other womē.

Likewise Ammonarion, a holy virgin, and an aged matron, named Mercuria, with another called Dyonisia (being a mother of many fair children) after many torments, were slain by the sword. Ammonarion suffered before the rest, after, Heron, and Isidorus, Egyptians, and with them Dioscorus, of the age of xv. years, With whom the Judge first began, and could not prevail, either by persuasions, or torments. The rest (after grievous torments) he caused to be burned, and respited Dioscorus for his tender age, being astonied at his grave answers, and constancy.

Nemesian also, an Egyptian, was first accused to be a cōpaniō of thieves: but being purged thereof before the Cēturion, was thē accused of christianity. Wherefore (being more grievously scourged thā y ^e other thieves) he was burned w ^t them.

There were standing before the Tribunal seat, certain warriors, or knights, whose names were, Ammon, Zenon, Ptolomeus, Ingenius, and w ^t them a certain aged man called Theophilus: who seeing a certain Christian fainting, and fearful to confess his faith, emboldened him by signs, & gave him courage. Which being noted, & the stāders by ready to lay hands on them, they preased up of their own accord, professing themselves to be Christians. Wherat the Judge and his assistants were greatly amazed, and the Christians emboldened to suffer. So they departed, glad for the testimony they had given of their faith.

Also one Ischrion, being oftentimes moved by his master to do sacrifice, and he refusing, was of him run through with a pike, and slain. In these times, infinite numbers wādred in wildernesses, suffering hunger, cold, danger of wild beasts: in the number of whom was Cheremon, Bishop of a town called Nile, an aged man: who with his wife, flying to the mountain of Arabia, could never (although they were sought for) be heard of. And many other taken of the barbarous Arabiās, could scarcely be ransomed for money.

At the same time Dionisius Alexandrinus (out of whose Epistle to Fabius Bishop of Antioch, Eusebius recordeth these persecutions) suffered much afflicton, and had strange deliverance. Once the messenger was stricken blind, and could not find his house, being a Farmer of Sabinus: at length after three days he was commanded of God to fly, and so did: but afterward coming to Jerusalem, he was taken and brought by soldiers to Taposixis, where Timothy being from home and returning, & finding Dionisius and others taken, and all the rest fled, he fled away also, and meeting a neighbor of his, and asked whether he went, declared all the matter simply. Which done, the man went on as he was purposed to a marriage, and told the company what was done, which they hearing, burst out of the house in the night season (as the manner of marriages was in that time) making toward the prisoners with great showting: whereat they that apprehended the prisoners being afraid, left them, & ran away. Then the company willed them to depart, which they did, & took Dionysius by the hands & feet, & carried him out, & led him away. There followed him Gaius, Faustus, Petrus, Paulus, who brought him out of the city, and setting him upon a bare Ass, conveyed him away.

Under Decius suffered one Christophorus, a Chanaanite, being 12. cubits hie. Under him, also suffered Meniatus a Florentine, & Agatha, an holy virgin in Sicily, who suffered imprisonment, with beatings, racking, famine, railing upon, sharp shelles, and hot coals. Having (moreover) her breasts cut from her body, by the cruelty of Quintinianus the Proconsul. About the same time suffered also among others, xl. virgins by diverse kinds of death. Under this tyrant also suffered by the sword (after diverse torments) Tryphon, a man of great holiness and constancy in the City of Nice, by Aquilius. At what time Decius had erected a temple in y ^e midst of Ephesus, cōpelling all in the city to do sacrifice, there were found vii. soldiers y ^t refused: their names were, Maximianus, Malchus, Martialis, Dionisius, Johannes, Serapion and Constantine. Who when respite was given them to consider of the matter, till the Emperors return from the war, hid themselves in mount Celius in caves: which the Emperor at his return caused to be rammed up with stones, and so they were martyred.

There was, as Hieronymus writeth in the life of Paulus the Heremite, a godly soldier, who could by no means be brought from his faith by the Pretor, and was brought into a pleasant garden, and laid on a soft bed, and an harlot sent to allure him: who when she offered to kiss, he bit of hir tongue, and spit it in the harlots face. The like is reported of Ambrose de virginibus, of Theodora, who was commanded to the stews: which a young man a Christian understanding, pressed in, as though he had been one of the lewd wantons, and told Theodora what he was, and counseled her to change garments, and to convey herself away. Which she did, he offering himself to their violence: and being found a man, confessed himself a Christian, & was presently condemned to suffer. Which Theodora understanding of, offered her self to the Judge, as the party guilty, and required the other might be discharged. But the cruel judge commanded them to be both beheaded, and after cast into the fire. At what time this befell, it doth not appear.

Agathon, a man of Termes, in the city of Alexādria, for rebuking those that derided the dead bodies of the Christians, was condemned to lose his head.

The Proconsull of Troada, gave Paulus and Andreas (being first scourged, and after drawn through the City) to be trodden to death under the feet of the people. In this time also of Decius, suffered one Justinus, a priest of Rome, and Nicostratus, a Deacon, also Portius, a priest of Rome, who is reported to have converted the Emperor Philip above mentioned.

In that time there was also one Secundianus, who was accused to Valerian a captain of Decius to be a Christian: who as he was led by the soldiers to the gaile, Verianus & Marcellinus cried to the soldiers, and asked whether they led the innocent. Wherevpon they were also brought to a place named Contumcellas, and there after torments & beatings with wasters, they were hanged on a gibbet with fire put to their sides: but the tormentors some fell suddenly dead, other were taken with evil spirits, and the martyrs at length were beheaded with the sword.

Besides an infinite number that suffered under Decius, these are registered, Hippolitus and Concordia, Hiereneus & Abundus, Victoria a virgin, being noble personages of Antioch: Bellias bishop of the city of Apollonia, Leacus, Tyrsus and Galmetus Nazanzo, Triphon in the city of Egypt, called Tanais. Phildas bishop of Philocomus, with many other in Perside, Philochronius bishop of Babylon, Thesiphon bishop of Pamphilia, Nestor bishop in Corduba: Parmenius a priest with diverse other. In the province called Colonia, Circensis Marianus and Jacobus. In Africa Nemesianus, Felix, Rogatianus priest, Felicissimus: at Rome Iouinius, Basilius, Ruffina, Secunda virgins, Tertullianus, Valerianus, Nemesius, Sempromanus, & Olympius in Spain: Teragone at Verone, Zeno bishop at Cesarea: Marinus and Archenius in the town of Milaine: Priuatus bishop, Theodorus surnamed Gregorius bishop of Pontus. Haec Beda.

Also in the same persecution suffered certain children, in a city of Tuscia called Aretum: their names are thought to be Pergentius and Laurentius.

The heat of this persecution was so sore, that some revolted, as Serapion an aged mā, Nichomachus in the midst of his torments, in the city of Troada: Euaristus bishop in Africa, Nicostratus a Deacon, whereof diverse were punished by the hand of God, some with evil spirits, some with strange diseases.

In this time rose up the quarrel and Heresy of Novatus, who disturbed Cyprian bishop of Carthage, afterward disturbed Cornelius Bishop of Rome, and being assisted with Maximus, Urbanus, Sydonius, and Celerinus, allured unto him three simple Bishops in the coasts of Italy, by whose laying on of hands (making them drunk before (he made himself Bishop of Rome with Cornelius, whom he went about by all means to defeat, and caused the people that came to receive the Eucharist at his hands, to swear they would stand with him. But Maximus, Urbanus, Sydonius, and Celerinus, perceiving themselves abused, forsook him afterward.

Cornelius remained B. of Rome after the death of Decius to the time of Gallus, but other affirm (as Damasus ) that he was exiled under Decius, and by him martyred in the way of Appius, first being beaten with plumbats. Eusebius saith he sat two years: in another place he saith three years. Damasus giveth him only two years.

Under this tyrant suffered, as Cyprian reporteth, two young men, the one Aurelius who was twice tormented, the other Mappalicus, who in the midst of his torments, said to the Proconsull; tomorrow you shall see the running for a wager: meaning his martyrdom, which he constantly did suffer.

This Decius reigned but two years, and with his son was slain of the Barbarians. Pomponius affirming that he warring against the Gothians, to avoid their hands, ran into an whyrlepit where he was drowned, and his body never found.

Immediatly after the death of Decius, God sent a plague ten years together, which made diverse places of the world desolate; especially where the persecution most raged. Where might appear great difference between the Christians and Gentiles, one comforting and ministering to the necessities of their brethren, the other forsaking their neighbors, and friends, left them destitute, and void of succor. Upon this plague, Cypr. wrote his book de mortalitate.

After y ^e death of Decius, succeeded Vibias Gallus & Volusian. his son, both by treasō, about y ^e year 255. & continued 2. years.

Gallus at the first was quiet, but anon after published edicts against y ^e Christians, which was chiefly of banishment of the guides of the church. In whose time Cyprian B. of Carthage was banished. Other were condemned to y ^e mynes, as Nemesianus, Felix, Lucius, with their bish, priests, & deacons: to whom Cyprian wrote cōsolatory epistles. He wrote also consolatory Epistles to Seagrius & Rogatianus, being then in bonds for the truth. In the time of this Gallus, was Lucius B. of Rome sent into banishment, (who next succeeded Cornelius in y ^e year 256. ) wherein he continued but a while, and returned to his Church. Lucius sat but 8. months, as saith Eusebius, Damasus, Marianus, Scotus, and Nauclerus say he sat 3. years, and was beheaded the second year of Valerian, and Galienus.

After Lucius, came Stephanus, & sat 7. years 5. months, & died a martir, as saith Damasus. Platina, Sabellicus, Eusebius, & Volateranus, give him (which is more likely) but 2. years.

Betwixt this Stephanus, and Cyprian, fell a contention about rebaptising of heretics.

Next to the former Emperors succeeded Emilianus, who slue the former, and succeeded himself. After that he had reigned but three months, he also was slain.

Next, Valerianus, and Galienus, his son, were advanced to the Empire, and succeeded Emilianus.

Valerianus three or four years was so courteous, and gentle to the Christians, as no Emperor before him, no not such as professed Christ: so that his Court was full of Christians. But being seduced by an Egyptian magician, who was hindered by the Christians, from practicing his charms, he fell to idols, and sacrificed young infantes, and raised the eight persecution.

The eight Persecution.

THe chief ministers of this persecution were, Emilianus, President of Egypt, Paternus and Galerius maximus Proconsuls in Africa, Paternus Vicegerent in Rome, Perennius, Nicetus and Claudius Presidents.

The cause of this persecution, besides the Egyptian above mentioned, was the dissention and disordered life of Christians, even of those that had been confessors, as Cyprian in his fourth book, and fourth Epistle doeth declare: to whom it was shown in a vision of the Lord before it came. There was a certain aged man sitting, at whose right hand sat a young man very sad and pensive, as one with an indignation sorrowful, holding his hand upon his breast, his countenance heavy, and vncheerefull. On the left hand sat another person, having in his hand a net which he threatened to lay to catch the people that stood about, and said unto him: the young man whom thou seest sad & sorrowful, is for that his precepts be not observed: but he on the left hand daunceth and is merry, for that occasion is given him to have power of the aged father, to afflict men.

Cyprian doth defend the Christians, and confute the false accusations laid against them (as among the rest to be y ^e causes of all calamities that happened of war or plague whatsoever) writing contra Demetrium, as Tertullian had before, writing contra Capulam.

Cyprian was an African, borne in Carthage, and first was an idolater, altogether given to the practice of magical arts, and a worthy Rhetorician. He was converted to the saith by Cecil. a priest (whose name after he bare) through occasion of hearing the history of y ^e Prophet Jonah. And immediately upon his conversion, he distributed all his substance to the poor, and being ordained a Priest, was not long after made Bishop of Carthage. But whether he succeeded Agrippinus, which was the first author of rebaptization, it is uncertain. Such were his gifts and virtues, that he had the government of the whole East Church, and Church of Spain: and was called the Bishop of Christian men. He was much given to read Tertullian, and called him his master.

In the time of Decius and Gallus, he was first banished, and after (returning again out of exile, in the time of Valerianus ) he was also the second time banished by Paternus, the Proconsull of Afric, into the City of Thurbin, or into a City called Furabilitana, or Curabilitana. But when Paternus the Proconsul was dead, Galienus Maximus succeeded him: who finding Cyprian in a Garden, caused him to be apprehended, and (after many raging words) his head to be stricken of, Xistus being then Bishop of Rome, in the yere 259.

It is to be noted, that there were more Cyprians: one of whom, Nazianzen writeth to be a Citizen of Antioch, and afterward Bishop of that City, and martyred under Dioclesian. There was also a third Cyprian, in the time of Julianus Apostate, long after both the former.

About this time, under the same Valerianus, suffered Xistus, or Sixtus, the second of that name, Bishop of Rome: who with vi. of his Deacons, ( Nemesius being one) was beheaded. At which time also, one Laurence a Deacon, seeing the Bishop led to execution, cried out unto him, saying, O dear father, whither goest thou without the company of thy dear son? meaning himself. To whom he answered with a fatherly discourse: that within three days, he should suffer after a more painful manner: which in deed followed according as he had said: for Laurence having distributed of the goods of the poor, by the charge of the Bishop, it came to the Emperors ear: who (greedy of pray) commanded him to render the treasure unto him. But he insteade thereof, presented unto him after three days respite, a sort of poor Christians, as the treasure of the Church. Wherewith, taking himself deluded, he commanded Laurence to be broiled on an Iron Gridiron. Whereon, after he had suffered a great space, he pronounced these words unto the Tyrant: This side is now roasted enough, turn up O Tyrant: assay whether roasted, or raw, thou think to be better meat.

By the constant confession of this Laurence, a certain Soldier of Rome being pricked, and therewith converted to y ^e faith, desired forthwith to be baptized of him: for which, (being called for by the Judge) he was scourged, and after beheaded.

Under the same suffered also Dionisius (B. of Alexādria) much affliction and banishment: who with Faustus, Maximus, and Cheremon, were banished into a town of Libia, called Cephrobie. Emilianus the President, at the Emperors commandment, not giving Dionisius (then sick) one days respite: in y ^e place he was once scourged, & afterward removed frō thence to another place called Mariota, a more straight & sharp place of Libia. Who after he came thither, was assigned thence to go to Colluthion. There were also afflicted with him at y ^t time, Gaius, Petrus, and Paulus. But (notwithstanding all their cruelty) certain visited the brethren: as Maximus, Dioscorus, Demetrius, and Lucius. At y ^t time also Eusebius suffered afflictiō for the truth, who was afterward made B. of Laodicea, in Siria. Maximus had the ministry of the church of Alexandria after Dionisius.

Faustus long after, being a very old man, was in the later persecution beheaded. Dionisius himself suruiued all these troubles, and continued unto the xii. yere of the reign of Galienus, about the yere 268. and so in great age departed in peace, after he had governed the church of Alexandria xvij. years, and taught School in the same xvi. years. After whom succeeded Maximus.

In Cesaria Palestine suffered y ^e same time Priscus, Marcus and Alexander: who stepping to the judge, and declaring thenselves to be Christians, were given to wild beasts, with a woman that had been before of the sect of Marcion.

Also in Carthage were 300. martyred in a lime kill, for refusing to do sacrifice to Jupiter.

Also in the city of Tuburba, Maxima, Donatilla, and Secunda, three virgins were after diverse cruel torments given to beasts, which refusing to touch thē they were beheaded with the sword. In Symela a city under the Alps one Pontius being apprehended by Claudius the president, after diverse torments, was given to beasts, who refusing to touch him, was committed to the fire, of which also being not touched, he was beheaded by a rivers side, and his body cast into the same. At which instant Claudius with Anabius his assistant were taken with wicked spirits, and bit of their own tongues, and so died.

In the same time also Zeno Bishop of Verona was martyred. The later Histories write of one Philippus, who being promoted to the Presidentship of Alexandria, came down with his wife Claudia, and his two sons Auitus and Sergius, and his daughter named Eugenia. Among whom this Eugenia was brought to Christianity, with two other her companions Eunuchs Prothus, and Hyacinthus: with whom she councelling, took the apparel of a man, partly to avoid trouble, and to hear more boldly the readings of Helenus an aged Bishop, and called her name Eugenius. Now a matron named Melancia, of Alexandria, fell in love with this Eugenius: which she refusing, and Melācia seeing by no means she could obtain her suit, she made an outcry against Eugenius, declaring y ^t he went about to defloure her, & presented her accusatiō to Philippus: Whervpon Eugenius was constrained to manifest her self unto Philippus her father, who had now long time missed her, & whom with other of her parents she did afterward win to the faith, for the same was after martyred. Eugenia after the martyrdom of her Father, is said to have returned to Rome with Prothus, and Hyacinthus, and converted Basilla to the faith, who should have been married to a Pagan husband, and was then beheaded after sundry, and diverse torments.

In the sixth year of Valerianus, Victor and Victorinus, with Claudianus and Bossa his wife, after three years imprisonment, and diverse torments, were put to death.

Under these tyraunts, suffered Fructuosus Bishop of Taraconia in Spain, with his two Deacons Augurius and Eulogius, condēnsd by Emilianus. There hands bound behind them, presently were unloosed, and the fire flew from them, till they had prayed, that it might accomplish the work, and so they died constantly. At which time a certain soldier of the house of Emilianus, did see the heaven open and the martyrs enter in: which sight he did show unto the daughter of Emilianus the president.

This Valerian after he had reigned with his son Galienus six or seven years, and about two years had afflicted the Christians, fell into the hands of Sapores king of Persians, being of three score and ten years of age: who made him always his footstool to get upon his horse, to which purpose he served till his death: albeit Eusebius saith he was slain at the commandment of Sapores, and powdered with salt. Claudius his president was possessed of a Devil, and biting of his own tongue, by many small pieces, ended his life.

At the same time in the Roman Monarchy there happened thirty earthquakes together: by the means whereof Galienus could not succor his Father, whom it is thought they did so terrify, that he caused thereupon the persecution to be moderated, notwithstanding there were some that suffered: among whom was one Marinus, who being a noble man, and a warrior of Cesarea, and standing for a dignity that belonged unto him, was accused of him y ^t should succeed him, to be a Christian, whereupon being called before Achaius, then judge, had given him four hours to deliberate: who standing in deliberation, Theotechnus otherwise called Theodistus Bishop of Cesarea brought him into the Church of Christians, laid before him a book of the new testament, and a sword, willing him to choose: who forthwith chose the book, and so encouraged by the Bishop, presented himself to the judge, by whose sentence he was beheaded.

After the martirdom of Xistus, the government of y ^e church of Rome was committed to one Dionysius, about the year 266. [ 266] who continued therein the space of 9. years, according to Eusebius, but as Damasus saith, 6. years and 2. months.

After him succeeded Felix, in the first year of Probus the Emperor, about the year 280. [ 280] who governed that Church 5. years and died (as Platina saith) a martyr. After him followed Entuchianus, and then Gaius, both martyrs, as the histories of some do record.

About the time of these Bishops, Theodorus Bishop of Neocesarea lived, otherwise called Gregorius magnus, whom Nicephorus calleth the worker of miracles.

After the captivity of Valerian with whom he reigned 7. years, he ruled the monarchy alone about 9. years with some peace to the Church.

After Galienus succeeded Claudius, a quiet Emperor: although Vincentius saith, he moved persecution: under whō he maketh mention of 262, martyrs, that should suffer. This Claudius reigned but 2. years, after whom came Quintilianus his brother, a quiet Prince: who continued but seventeen days, and had his successor Aurelianus: under whom was moved the ninth Persecution.

The ninth Persecution.

THis Aurelianus rather intended, then moved persecution, for as the edict was a subscribing with his hand, he was terrified with lightening, and not long after about the fifth or sixth year of his reign he was slain, betwixt Bizans and Heraclea, Anno 278. [ 278] Vincentius and Orosius notwithstanding reckon up a great Catalogue of martyrs, which should suffer under him in France, and Italy.

Next unto Aurelianus succeeded Publius Annius Tacitus, who reigned but six months: after him succeeded his brother Florianus, who reigned but threescore days. And after him succeeded M. Aurelius, surnamed Probus, under whom was moved no persecution: and after he had reigned six years, & four month, (by reason he kept his soldiers occupied, where no occasion of war was offered) he was slain. Anno 284. [ 284]

Next him succeeded Carus with his two sons, Carinus, and Numerianus, who continued but 3. years. Of these, Numerianus killed Cerillus, because he would not suffer him to enter into the congregation of the Christians he being their bishop. This Numerianus was slain of his father in law Aper.

After these, succeeded Dioclesian, in whose time till the 19. year of his reign, y ^e Church was quiet, & the whole time of the quietness of the Church might seem to continue about 44. years. In which time, the Church grew mightily, and the chief of them were in favor with the Emperor, as Dorotheus, and Gorgoneus, and diverse mo.

The Church having now obtained peace outwardly, began to be divided with controversies, and to wax wantō with their peace, which was so great, & multituds so increased, that then they began to build large churches for their congregations: but their dissoluteness brought on them the 10 persecution, which although it passed through the hands of diverse tyrants, yet it beareth the name of Dioclesian.

The tenth Persecution.

THis Dioclesian flue Aper, who flue Numerianus, and in the first beginning of his reign, chose for his Colleague Maximianus surnamed Herculeus, father to Maxentius, which two also chose two other to them, Galerius, and Constantius, whom they called Caesars.

Dioclesian all the while he abstained from persecuting, obtained diverse victories, wherewith being puffed up, he would needs after a solemn triumph be worshipped as a God: saying he was brother to the sun, and moon, and would needs inioyn y ^t people to kiss his feet: and in the 19. yere of his reign he moved persecution. In the month of March, when the feast of Easter was nigh at hand, he commanded all the Churches of the Christians to be destroyed, and the scriptures to be burned, and put of from magistracy all such as were Christians, and constrained all with torments, to offer to Idols.

At the first coming of the cruel edicts into Nicomedia, after the Proclamation made was set up, there ran a Christian, a noble man borne, & openly rent, and tare it in pieces, notwithstanding, two of the Emperors were then in the city: for which act he was put to most bitter death.

These Tyrants parted the execution of their cruelty among them. Dioclesian in the East, Maximianus in y ^e west. Dioclesian began first in his own Campe with the Christian Soldiers: willing such as would not agree to him, to lay away their weapons, and give over their charges: which they did willingly.

At Tyre in Phenicia, there were certain Christians (given to the bears, & most cruel wild beasts) preserved miraculously from hurt: although they were kept hungry for the purpose, and raged against those that brought the Christians, and those they could catch they devoured: but the Christians were beheaded with the sword, & after thrown into the sea.

At that time was martyred the B. of Sidon. But Siluanus the bishop of Gazensis, with 39. other were slain in the metal mines of Phenicia.

Then also was Pamphilius an elder of Casarea, the glory of that congregation martyred, of whom Eusebius hath written in a several book.

In Syria all the teachers, bishops, Elders, and Deacons were committed to prison, Tirannion was made meat for the fishes of the sea, and Arnobius a very good physician, was slain with brickbats.

Some to avoid sacrificing to idols drowned, themselves, as two maids in Antioch, of a worshipful parentage.

Siluanus the Bishop of Emissa, together with certain others, was thrown to wild beasts.

In Mesopotamia the Christians were hanged by the feet, and choked with a smoke of small fire, with diverse other torments. In Cappadocia the martyrs had their legs broken.

There were also martyrs in Tarsus of Silicia, Tharatus, Probus, and Andronicus. But the martyrs of Pontus suffered most grievous torments: and so outrageous was the beginning of the persecution in Nichodemia, & Bithinia, that he refrayned not from the slaughter of Emperors children, nor the chiefest Princes of his Court, whom not long before he had esteemed as his own children, Among whom was Peter, of the household, who (after diverse cruel torments, as, whipping to the bones, and powdering with salt & vinager) was roasted with a soft fire: which Dorotheus and Gorgonius seeing, reproved the Emperor, and confessed themselves to be Christians. Wherefore (notw ^t standing they were in great authority under him) they were almost tormented as Peter was and after strangled.

Afterward, Anthonius Bishoppe of Nicomedia, and a great company of Martyrs with him, were beheaded. And so was Lucianus (the Elder of the Congregation at Antioch) after he had made his Apology before the Emperor.

Hermannus caused Serena the wife of Dioclesian, to be martyred. There were also other Martyrs in Nicomedia, as, Eulampia, Agapen, Irenea, Chronia, and Anastachia: who under Illyricus chief Officer, were burned.

Maximinus burned 2000. Christians together in one Temple, men, women, and children.

In Arabia many Martyrs were slain with axes. In Phrygia there was a whole City of Christians compassed, set on fire, and burned.

In Melitina, a Region of Armenia, the Bishops and Elders were cast into prison.

In Arabrate, a Region nigh Armenia, Eustachius, that Countryman borne, and Sheriff under the Emperor at Lycia, in the East, having there done execution on the Christians, was converted, and confessed himself a Christian: & after diverse strange torments, was carried to Sebastia, with the rest of his companions, and there burned,

At that time also suffered Eugenius, Auxentius, Marderius. And in no less manner raged this persecution in Egypt, where Peleus, and Nile, Bishops, were martyred. But especially in Alexandria the rage was great, where Peter the Bishop of Alexandria suffered, with the Elders of the same church, Faustus, Didius, Ammonius, Phildas, Hesichius, Pachiminus, and Theodorus, beside many other.

The whole legion of Christian Soldiers, which (to the number of 6660. lay at Thebes in Egypt, under the Christian Captain Maurice ) refusing to worship Images, were tithed to death once, and then again: and last, through y ^e exhortation of Maurice, died all together constant in faith Likewise at Anteno diverse Christian Martyrs suffered death together. Among whom were, Ascla, Philemon, and Apollonius. And in other parts of Africa, and Mauritania, was great persecution. Also in Samnium, & Scilia, where 79. were put to death.

Now in Europe, at Nicopolis in Thracia, the Martyrs were miserably handled by Lysia. In Chalcedon suffered Euphenia, under Priscus the Proconsul

At Rome, Johannes, and Crispus, being Priests had the execution of Martyrs. At Bohemia, Agricola, & Vitalis: and at Aquileia, the Emperor commanded every man to kill the Christians. Among those, Felices, and Fortunatus are recorded. In other places also of Italy, the persecutiō was great: as, at Florentia, Pergamos, Naples, Cāpania, Beneuentus, at Venusa in Apulia, in Thussia, and at Verona.

In France. Rectorianus was a cruel persecutor. At Mediolanum suffered Victor.

At Massilia, Maximianus setteth out his decree, that all y ^e refused to do sacrifice, should with diverse torments be slain. In Beluacus suffered Lucian.

In Spain likewise was great persecution, as at Emerita, where suffered Eulalia, and Adula: where also suffered Vincentia, Sabina, and Christiana.

At Toletum suffered Leucadia the virgin. At Cesarea, Augusta: Where were put to death xviij. beside a great mumber of Martyrs which suffered under Decianus the Governor, who afflicted with persecutiō, all y ^e coasts of Spain. And the foresaid Rectorianus made such Persecution at Treuers, near the river of Mosella, that the blood of Christian men that were slain, ran like a little brook, and coloured many rivers. And round about all quarters he commanded horsemen to ride, and charge the people to kill the Christians, as they found them.

Moreover, at Colonia was great persecutiō, where Agrippina and Augusta were martyred: as also in the province of Rhetia. And in Brytannie all the Christians were destroyed. The deaths that this tyrant used were diverse, and the torments so grievous as no tongue can utter: as the hanging up of them by one hand, that they might feel the weight of the rest of their bodies, the scorching and broylyng them with coals not unto death, but every day new: with which kind of death the martyrs of Antioch were afflicted, as more at large it appeareth by a letter of Phildas, to the congregation of Thunitans, where he was Bishop before he received the sentence of death, being yet in hands.

In Thebaid, Eusebius saith, that he himself beheld the persecution, which was so great, that the very swords of the hangmen and persecutors, being blunt with the great and often slaughter, they themselves for weariness sat down to rest them, and other were fain to take their places. But the martyrs nothing dismayed, bare all with patience, for his sake.

In this persecution one Miletus gave back, and the Bishoppe of Lycus a city in little Egypt, whom Peter the Bishop of Alexandria did therefore excommunicate. So did Marcellinus Bishop of Rome, being persuaded thereto by Dioclesian, wherefore he was excommunicated, but afterward repented, and was also martyred.

So cruel was the persecution, that there were slain of Martyrs in xxx. days, xvij. thousand, besides another great multitude that were condemned to the metal mines, and Quarries. At Alexandria, with Peter their B. were slain 300. with axes. Geriō was beheaded at Colonia, & Agrippina, with 300 of his fellows. Victor in the city of Troye, now called Xanthus, with his fellows, 360. Reginus reciteth many other martyrs, to the number of 120.

Maurice came out of Syria into France, and Italy, being Captain of the bande of the Theban soldiers, in mumber 6660. sent for of Maximinianus to go against the rebellious Bangandes. These Thebans were at Rome confirmed by Marcellus the bishop in the faith. Now at Ottodon Maximinianus offered sacrifice to the Devils, and commanded all his army so to do, which Maurice and his company refused, wherefore they were all tythed to death once: and persisting constantly, were tythed again, and at the last by the commandment of Maximinianus his whole army set upon them, and slue them all, making no resistance. Victor at that time was not of that bande, but being dismissed for his age, came suddenly to see what had been done, and finding them making merry and banketting, having known the cause, detested their fact. Whervpon, confessing also him self to be a Christian, he was slain.

This persecution endured till the seventh year of Constantine, as Beda saith, but as Eusebius, till the tenth yere: which at the length ceased from slaughter, the tyrants being out of hope to extinguish them: yet slew they many, and put out the eyes of diverse, and condemned other to the metal mines.

When Dioclesianus and Maximinianus had reigned together one and twenty, or two and twenty years, they gave over their empire, and lived a private life, Dioclesian at Salona, the other at Mediolanum, Ann. 309. [ 309] after Christ, so that the Imperial dignity remained now with Constantius & Galerius Maximinus. Maximinus governing the east, and Constantius the West partes. But Constantius (contented only with the title) satisfied himself with France, Spain, and Britanie. Wherefore, Galerius chose to him his two sons, Maximinus and Seuerus. Likewise, Constantius took Constantine under him.

In the mean time, while Maximinus with his two Caesars were in Asia, the Romā soldiers set up for their Emperor Maxentius, the son of Maximinian, who had deposed himself: against whom Seuerus being sent by his father, was slain of Maxentius: in whose place Maximinus took Licinius, and these Emperors prosecuted the persecution seven or eight years, which was till the year 318. [ 318] Sauing that Constantius and his son Constantine rather favored the Christians: and minding to try at a certain time what good Christians he had in his court, feigned as though he would do sacrifice to Devils, and commanded all his household so to do, to the end he might discern the one from the other: which having done, and finding a number to remain constant, cherished them and refused the backsliders, admitting the other to the chief places about him.

Maximinus in the East churches used great cruelty, and had executioners of the same, Pentius, Quintianus & Theotechnus, besides other: but his rage was stayed by the hand of God, who sent him such a botch, that it putrefied and eat his entrails, from whence swarmed an innumerable multitude of lyce: whereupon he caused persecution to cease, and required the Christians to pray for him, and published edicts of peace unto them throughout all his Empire. Wherat one Maxentius was not pleased to have such edicts published, where he had to do, in Asia, & other provinces. But Sabinus, who had among them the chief office, wrote the Emperors pleasure to the substitutes of every country, whereupon grew a marvelous sudden alteration in the Church. But scarce suffered Maximinus the tyrant the same six months unviolated, but set out contrary edicts, & caused them to be engraved in brass, and hanged in every city. So that persecution rose again as great as before. At Emysa in Phenicia they condemned three Christians, with whom Syluanus the bishop, a very old man, being 40. years in ecclesiastical function, was condemned to death. In Nicomedia Lucianus the Elder of Antioch, after he had given his Apology to the Emperor, was put to death. In Amasia a city of Cappadocia, Bringes the lieftenant of Maximinus, had the executing of that persecution.

At Alexandria, Petrus a most worthy bishop, was beheaded with many other Egyptian bishops. Quirinus the Bishop of Scescanius was thrown into the flood, having an handmill hanged about his neck, and drowned.

At Rome died Marcellus, and Timothy the elder, with many other Bishops and priests: and in many other places diverse were martyred, as Victorianus, Symphorianus, Castorius with his wife, Castulus, Cesarius, Mennas, Nobilis, Dorotheus, Gorgamus, Petrus, and other innumerable martyrs more, Iuliana, Cosmus, Damanus, Basilenus, with 7. other. Dorothea, Theophilus, Theodosia, Vitalis, Agricola, Acha, Philemon, Hireneus, Ianuarius, Festus, Desiderius, Gregorius, Spolitanus, Agapes, Chronia, Hirenea, Theodora, and 270. other: Florianus, Primus, and Felicianus, Vitus, and Modestus, Crescentia, Albinus, Rogatianus, Donatianus, Pancratius, Catharina, Margareta, Lucia, the virgin, and Antheus the king with 37000. martyrs, Simplicius, Faustinus, Beatrix, Panthaleon, Gregorius, Iustus, Leocandia, Anthonia, with an infinite number more. Also Felix Victor with his parents, Lucia the widow: Germinianus with 79. others: Sabinus, Anastacia, Chrisogonus, Felix, and Audactus, Adrianus, Nathalia, Eugenia, Agnes of thirteen years old. The kind of cruelties were strange, and the persecution more grievous under Maximinus the tyrant, then under Maximinianus the Prince.

Now the Emperor in his edict, had declared what plenty they enjoyed, what times their Idols were adored: but immediately upon this renewing of persecution, fell out most miserable famine and pestilence, in the which the Christians shown their kindness unto the Gentiles, relieving to their power such as they thought to stand in need. Herevpon grew again some peace.

Maximinian understanding that the Pretorian soldiers had chosen his son Emperor at Rome, intended to take unto him again his empire, and persuaded Dioclesian so to do, but was repulsed, and provided to fly to Constantine in France for aide; but indeed purposed to kill him: which was detected by Fausta the daughter of Maximinian, whō Constantine had married. So that taking no place, he retired, & in the way was apprehended, and put to death.

Certain companions of Maxentius, soliciting a Christian Gentlewoman of Rome, whose husband first they had killed, to satisfy the filthy desire of the Emperor, rather then she would so do, killed her self.

In the beginning of his reign, he feigned himself a Christian, to the end he might serve his wicked purpose, but afterward shown himself both towards them, and in all other behavior most abhominable, giving himself to magic, and pollution of his body, with all kind of cruelty against his own citizens, and nobles.

He banished a certain noblewoman of Rome, because she gave her goods to the Church.

The people of Rome being wearied with y ^e villainy of Maxentius, required aid of Constantine. who first admonished him by letters, which nothing prevailing, he gathered an army in France, and Britanny, to repress the rage of the of the tyrant. To whō he approached: and fearing his charms wherewith he had vanquished Seuerus, sent by Galerius, stood in doubt: and whilst he was in doubting, and casting up his eyes many times to heaven, on the South part, about the going down of the sun, he saw a brightness in heaven, appearing in the similitude of a cross, with certain stars of equal bigness, giving this inscription like latin letters, In hoc vince, that is, in this overcome. Eusebius Pamphilus made report that he heard Constantine himself often report the same. Now he being astonied hereat, and consulting upon the meaning thereof, in the night in his sleep, Christ appeared unto him with the sign of the same cross, which he had seen before, bidding him to make the figuratiō thereof, and to carry it in his wars before him, and so should he have victory. Wherevpon he marched towards Maxentius, (having done as the vision commanded) who being constrained to issue out of the city to meet him, commanded Pons Milonius to be beaten down, & a false bridge to be made, thinking thereby to take Constantine. But he himself being not able to sustain Constantine force, and retiring, in hope to get the City, was overthrown of his horse into the flood, and drowned, and so ended the last Persecution.

The first attempt of Constantine against Maxentius, was Ann. 318. [ 318] So that three hundred years was the full time of the persecution from Christ. Constantine for this victory had his image set up, holding in his right hand the sign of the cross, with this inscription: with this wholesome sign, the true token of fortitude, I have rescued and delivered our city from the yoke of the tyrant. After this, Constantine with Lycinius, gave liberty by proclamation to Christians, to profess their religion.

Dioclesian being at Salona, and hearing of the proceedings of Constantine, and this his edict, either for sorrow died, or as some say, poisoned himself. Now remained only Maximinus in the West, who although he raged against the Christians, yet was he appaled at the edict before mentioned, and caused Sabinus to publish a certain releasement to Christians, and yet wrote another countermaund: howbeit shortly after, he making wars, and fighting with Lycinius, lost the victory. Wherevppon, he caused his charmers to be killed, that persuaded him to the wars: and shortly after, being oppressed with a certain kind of disease, glorified the God of the Christians, and made a most absolute law for their safety. This was Ann. 319. [ 319]

Now yet remained Licinius, who was also a persecutor: notwithstanding, at y ^e first he dissembled the matter, and joined with Constantine. He was a man every way vitions: he named Learning the poison of the common Wealth, and counted learning in a prince to be a great vice. The knowledge of the laws he did most abhor: For he himself was unlearned.

He became a Persecutor, pretending against the Christians, that they prayed for Constantine only, and not for him. First, he began to persecute in his court: then he stretched unto his provinces, with as great cruelty as any that went before him: and hated Constantine, who gave him his sister Constantia to wife, and had bestowed many benefits upon him. About Amasia, and other Cities of Pontus, he rased the churches even to the ground.

Among those that suffered, Nicephorus first speaketh of Theodorus: who (being hanged upon a cross,) had nails thrust into his armepits, and after that, his head stricken of. Also, of one Theodorus B. of Tyre, & a man of Pergamos. Likewise, Basilius B. of Amasenus, Nicholaus, B. of Mirocus, Gregorius, of Armenia the great. After that, Paul of Neocesarea, who by Licinius him self, had both his hands cut off with a searing Iron.

Besides these aforesaid, were in the city of Sebastia, xl. Christian Soldiers, in the vehement cold time of winter, drowned in a horseponde: when Lycias as yet, & Agricolaus executing the sherifes office under Licinius, were in the east part, of great reputation, for inventing of new and strange torments against the Christians. The wives of those 40. were carried to Heraclea, a city in Thracia, and there with a certain deacon, whose name was Ammones, were (after innumerable torments) slain with the sword.

Divers battles were fought between Licinius & Constātinus. First in Hungary, where Licinius was overthrown. Then again in Macedonia, whither he fled, and repaired his army. And finally, being vanquished both by sea and lande, at Nicomedia he yielded himself to Constantine, and was commanded to live a private life in Thessalia, where he was slain by the soldiers. He was killed an. 324. [ 324] Constantius, the father of Constantine, being a good and godly Emperor, died, the iii. yere of the persecution, an. 310. and was buried at York.

Now, among an infinite number of special men of name that suffered, were these that follow in this 10, persecution, At what time Dioclesian and Maximinian, had directed out their Letters for the persecuting of Christians, Alban (the first that suffered martyrdom in England for Christ) received into his house a persecuted Clarke, named Amphibalus, by whose continual praying day and night, and godly life, he became a Christian. It was infourmed the Prince, that he lodged the Clarke. Whereupon, (search being made by the Princes commandment) Alban, by and by putting on the apparel of the Clark, his master offered himself instead of the other, to the soldiers, who brought him to the Judge, that was even then sacrificing unto devils at the Altar. Which Alban refusing to do, at the commandment of the Judge, after he had been grievously scourged, was beheaded. The Clarke flying into Wales, was fet also again to the same Town of Verlancaster, where he was martyred, having his belly opened, and made to run about a stake, while all his bowels were drawn out, then thrust in with swords and daggers, and at last stoned to death.

With Alban suffered Aaron, & Julius, ii. citizens of Verlācaster, beside a great mumber mo. Albans martyrdom might seem to be about the ii. or iii. yere of the x. persecutiō, under y ^e tyranny of Dioclesiā and Maximinianus, Herculeus thē bearing rule in England, about an. 301. [ 301] before Constantine came to his government. It is to be noted y ^t England was not touched w ^t any of the ix. persecutions, but only w ^t this tenth, in which almost all christianity was in y ^e Ilād extinguished.

Pitiles Galerius, w ^t his grand captain Asclepiades, invaded Antioch, threatening y ^e Christians: whom one Romanus, a noble man, confirmed, & encouraged to be constant. Wherefore he suffered many strange torments w ^t great constancy: and reasoning w ^t the tirant of the truth, required a child to be presented unto him: which was done, of whō he asked, whether it were more reasonable to worship one God, rather thē innumerable, considering God could be but one. To whom the child answered before the tyrant, according as his Christian parents had instructed him, y ^t one god was to be worshipped.

Wherefore the child was grievously scourged, & the skin of his head pulled of hair and all, the mother standing by, & exhorting the child to patience and constancy; he was put to death with Romanus, the child was beheaded, and Romanus cast into y ^e fire. Which whē it would not burn him, he was brought from the same, and strangled in prison.

Gordius was a citizen of Cesaria, a Centurion, who gave over his charge, & lived in the desert a long time: but upon a certain day when a solemn feast of Mars was celebrated with games, in the Theator of Cesaria, he came thither, & gat up to the highest place of the Theator: and uttered himself a Christian in the hearing of all the people: whereupon after he had endured many & grievous torments, the shiriffe assayed by flattery: which when it would not prevail, he caused him to be had out of the City to be burned, which was accomplished, and suffered of him with patience. Likewise suffered Menas an Egyptian soldier after that in like sort with Gordius, he had declared himself to be a Christian in the city of Cotis, where after diverse torments, by the commandment of Pirrhus the President, he suffered the loss of his head.

Basilius mentioneth of 40. martyrs in a Sermon, which were gentlemen, & young all, that professed themselves Christians, and went boldly unto the Marshall, & declared unto him their names: whereat he was first astonied, & not prevailing with flattering words & fair promises: devised a new torment, and caused them to stand all night (in the winter) in a great pond which was in the midst of the city, and lay full upon the cold North wind. In the morning they were found stark and stiff, yet having breath, were brought to the fire to be burned. Now one of them more lively then the rest was pitied of the tormentors, who said to his mother standing by, that they would save him alive: but she with her own hands brought him to the pile of wood where the rest lay, admonishing him to accomplish the blessed journey he had taken in hand?

The like story reporteth Nicephorus of forty martyrs that were married men, which were killed in a ponde at Sebestia a town of Armenia.

In this persecution suffered also Cyrus a Physician, borne in Alexandria, who flying into Egypt in the persecution of Dioclesianus and Maximinianus, led a solitary life in Arabia: unto him resorted one Johannes borne in the city of Edessa beyond Euphrates, leaving his soldiers life which before time he had exercised. Now these twain hearing of the inprisonment of Athanasia with her three daughters, Theoctiste, Theodota and Eudoxa, at the persecution of Canope a city in Egypt, came to confirm them: at which time Sirianus was the chief Captain and Lieftenant of Egypt (who was very cruel especially against women and maidens) whereof they being accused and in no sort yielding to do sacrifice, were put to death by the sword, with Athanasia and her three daughters.

Sebastian being borne in that part of France which is called Gaul Narbonensis, was Lieftenant general of the vauward of Dioclesian the Emperor, and encouraged many martyrs of Christ by his exhortations: whereof being accused to the Emperor, was commanded to be brought into y ^e opē field, where of his own soldiers he was shot through with innumerable arrows, and after his body was thrown into a Iakes. With him suffered others, as Nicostratus with Zoe his wife, Tranquillinus with Martia his wife, Traglianus, Claudius, Castor, Tiburtius, Castullus, Marcus and Marcellinus, with other moe.

Barlan a noble man, mentioned in a sermon of Basilius, having abode all torments, was laid upon the altar, where they used to offer up sacrifice, and fire and frankincense put into his right hand, (wherein he had yet some strength,) thinking he would have scattered the incense upon the altar, and have sacrificed, but the flame eat round about his hand, and the the same endured as though it had been covered with hot embers, he saying the Psalm: Blessed is the Lord my God who teacheth my hands to fight, &c.

Under Dioclesian, & Maximinian, suffered Agricola, and Vitalis his servant. Vitalis died in extremity of torments, Agricola was fastened to the cross, and so died.

But most lamentable was the martyrdom of Vincentius a Spaniard, who suffered martirdom at Valence under Darianus the President: of whom he was so racked, that all the joints of his body cracked: then was his body indented with many deadly wounds: and thirdly, his flesh was torn with iron combes sharply fyled, and that the tormentors should be the more egar, they were also scourged. This done they laid his body upon a grate of iron, and having opened it with hooks, they seared it with fiery plates, sprinkling the same with hot salt. And last of all, they drew him into a dungeon sprinkled with sharpshelles, and locked his feet in the stocks.

At Alexandria, Philoromus, having great possessions, forsook all for Christ, and was beaded, and could not be moved with respect of friends, wife or children. Also Procopius in Palestine, after his conversion, brake his silver images and gave them to the poor, and after most grievous torments, had his head smitten off, having first his body dismembered, both of hands and feet.

In like manner suffered Gregorius, a young man of Cappadocia, besides a number of others, as Sergius and Bacchius, &c.

Panthaleon a Physician in Nicomedia, Theodorus in the city of Amasia, in Hellespontus, Gerion with 318. fellow martyrs, which suffered about Colon. Hermogenes President of Athens, being converted by the constancy and patience of one Menas, and Eugraphus. Item Samonas, Gurias and Abilus, Hieron also with certain his confessors under Maximinus, Indes and Dominas at Nicomedia, with 2000. martyrs: Enelasius and Maximinius, whom Fausta the virgin converted in her torments. Also Thirsus, Lucius, Callinicus, Apollonius, Philemon, Asilas, Leonides, with Arrianus president of Thebaide.

Cyprian Bishop of Antioch (before his profession being a filthy magician,) suffered with Iustina a virgin. Item Glicerius at Nicomedia, Felix a minister, Fortunatus, Achilleus deacons in the city of Valent, Arthemius of Rome, Ciriacus deacon to Marcellus the Bishop, Caryophorus Priest at Thuscia, with Abundus his deacon. Item Claudius, Cyrinus, Antonius, which suffered with the Bishop Marcellinus, Cucusatus in the city Barcimona, Felix Bishop of Apulia, with Audactus and Ianuarius his priests, Fortunatus and Septimus his readers, who suffered in the city Venusia under Dioclesian: Cassianus was stabbed in of his scholars with bodkins, or iron pens, wherewith they did use to write.

Now the constancy of the womē was also marvelous, & especially of a virgin, named Eulalia, of the town of Emerita in Portugal, who (being shut up of her Christian Parents, that for desire of martyrdom, feared least she should because of her own death) brake out in the night, & came before the Governor of the town of Emerita, being distant frō the village where she was kept, & confessed her self to be a Christiā, & reproved the cruelty of the judge, & the vanity of Maximinius, y ^e worshipped Idols, throwed the idols down, which she was brought to worship, & scattered the incense. Wherefore, after many vain persuasions. she had one joint of her body pulled from another, and her flesh and sides scratched with talents of wild beasts to the bones (she in the mean time rejoicing and praising God) They seared her breasts with torches, which when they had caught her hair which hanged down to her feet & covered her shame, she swallowed the flame, opening her mouth, and so died.

Like was the constancy of Agnes of Rome, of honorable parentage, and not mariageable, when she professed Christ, wherefore being brought before the judge, she was threatened torments which she contemned, then was she threatened to be committed to the common stews, & yoonkers appointed to assail her, whom when she refused, commandment was given that she should be tied at a corner of a street, naked where common strumpets used to resort. At this y ^e multitude being greatly ashamed, went away saving one, who beholding y ^e virgin with unchaste eyes, was stricken w ^t lightning, & his eyes dashed out of his head: whom Agnes prayed for, & restored. In the end she was beheaded, and greatly rejoiced to see the executioner, preferring him before all the amorous company. There are many miracles reported of her.

Catharine openly resisted the Emperor Maxentius to his face, rebuking him for his cruelty, wherefore after she had felt the rack, and the four sharp cutting wheels, she was beheaded, about the year of the Lord 310. [ 310]

There was also one Iulitta, who was dispossessed wrōgfullie of her goods by the Emperors Deputy: for which she complained to the Emperor: but the covetous, and false deputy, accused her of Christianity, wherefore she could have no redress. Whereupon being command to do sacrifice with Incense, she refused it, and confirmed, and encouraged others. She was burnt in the fire, & so slept in the Lord.

Also Barbara, a noble womā in Thuscia, after she had suffered most cruel torments as, cords, & burning of her sides, was at the last beheaded.

Also Fausta the virgin, who suffered under Maximinus: by whom Euelasius a ruler in the Emperors palace, and Maximinius the president, were both converted, & suffered martyrdom. Also Iuliana of Nicomedia, under Maximinus. Item Anisia a maid of Thessalonica, under the same Maximinus. Iustina, which suffered with Cyprianus bishop of Antioch. Also Lucia, Agatha and Tecla, who rather suffered under Nero as most do agree: which all holy virgins, suffered in the tenth persecution of Dioclesian.

Now during the time of this persecution, these Bishops succeeded one the other: Gaius, who succeeded next after Xistus, Marcellinus, Marcellus, Eusebius, and then Miltiades: all which died martyrs in the time of this persecution. Marcellinus having given place to Dioclesian, and sacrificed, was excommunicated, but repented, and was martyred, with Claudius, Cyrinnus, and Antonius. Marcellus also refusing to do sacrifice, was beaten with wasters, and expelled the city, and entered into the house of Lucina a widow: & assembled the congregation. Which the tyrant hearing of, turned the house of Lucina into a stable, and made Marcellus a keeper of beasts: and so with stench thereof, and miserable handling, he died. Eusebius sat Bishop of Rome two months: some say eight, some six months. Miltiades (by the testimony of Platina ) sat three years & seven months, & suffered under Maximinus. Which seemeth not to be true, because he died before Miltiades. He was the last of the bishops of Rome, that were in danger to suffer.

Now in the East partes, in all Asia as yet for the space of iv. yerers persecutiō did not cease, by the means of wicked Licinius: under whom suffered diverse: as, Hermylus, a Deacon, and Stratonicides, a keeper of the prison. Which both, (after punishments sustained) were strangled in the flood Ister.

Now also under Sapores, king of Persia, suffered Acyndinus, Pegasius, Anempodistus. and Epidephorus: also, Simeon, Archbishop of Selentia, with Ctesiphon, another Bishop in Persia, with other ministers, and religious men, to the number of 128.

The Magicians of Persia accused Simeon, and Ctesiphō to Sapores, that they favored the Roman Empire, and revealed to the Emperor such things, as were done in Persia. Whereupon he called for Simeon, the chief Bishop, and endeavored to persuade him to do sacrifice: which he refusing, was committed to prison: and in the way going to the Jail, there was sitting at the kings gate a certain Eunuche, an old Schoolmaster and Tutor of the kings, named Vsthazares, who had fallen from Christianity to Idolatry, who seeing the. B. passing by, led to prison, rose up, & did reverence unto him. Simeon again with sharp words rebuked him, and cried out against him. Whereat the Eunuche burst out into tears, and (laying away his Courtly attire) put upon him a mourning weed, and sat before the Court gates weeping, and saying within himself, woe is me, with what hope shall I hereafter look for my God, whē Simeon my familiar acquaintance so much disdayneth me? Which being made known unto the king, and he confessing himself a Christian, after many perswasible words in vain, he was by the kings commandment led away to be beheaded. Going unto execution, he desired that the king would grant him, for the old and faithful service he had done him, that it might be proclaimed by a Crier, that Vsthazares was not beheaded for any offense against the king, or Realm; but only because he was a christiā. Which he required, because his shrinking from the faith, gave great offense to many Christians that heard thereof. And so it was granted unto him. Simeon being in prison, and hearing thereof, was very glad: and the next day suffered also, with an hundred more. All which were put to death before Simeon, who confirmed them: and at last, with two other ministers of his Church, Abedecalaus, and Ananias, he was also put to death.

At which time, one Pusices, seeing Ananias, an old father, to shrink at the sight of those that suffered: said unto him, O father, a little moment shut thine eyes, and be strong, and shortly thou shalt see the sight of God. Which being reported to the king, he caused an hole to be made in his neck, & there: out pulled his tongue, and so was he put to death, who was the kings servant, and overseer of his Artificers. At which time also, the daughter of Pusices, a godly virgin, was put to death for the testimony of Jesus.

The next yere following, on the day of the Lord's passion, the king set forth an Edict, for the utter extinguishing of all the Christians that were in his Dominions. So that an infinite number were slain in Town and City, (by the procurement of the Magicians, ) and diverse in the kings Court suffered martyrdom: among whom was Azades, whom he did most entirely love. Of whose death when he heard, he took it so heauelie, that he commanded after that time, no Christians should be put to death, but only those that were teachers.

In the same time the Queen fell into a certain disease: upon occasion whereof, the cruel Jews, & Magicians falsely accused Trabula, the sister of Simon the Martyr, a godly virgin, with another Sister of hers, that they had wrought the Queen hurt by Charmes: for which, they were both cut in sunder with Sawes, and their quarters hanged upon stakes, the Queen going between them, thinking thereby to be healed. This Trabula (being beautiful) was promised deliverance by one of the Magicians, if she would yield to his pleasure Which she constantly refused, and suffered patiently.

Now upon the Proclamation against the teachers, great persecution rose against them by the malice of the Magicians: especially in the Country of Diabener, which was most Christened: where Acepsimas (there B.) with a great number dismissed, and only deprived of living, was taken and whipped of the Magicians. To whom one Iacolus a minister of the Church, joined himself to serve the necessity of the aged Bishop. At the same time also Athalas a minister: Aradanes, and Abdiesus Decius, were imprisoned, and miserably scouraged for the testimony of Christ: and afterward were more tormented of the Archmagician, to whom the King had given liberty to use his pleasure on them, unless they would worship the Sun: which when they refused to do, they were put to most bitter torments, in which Acepsimas died: the other yet remaining maruelously alive, were turned again into prison. Of whom Athalas in time of his whipping, was so racked with pullings, that both his arms were pulled out of joint, and hung down, that he had no use of them.

Innumerable were the slaughters of bishops, ministers, and deacons, in this persecution under Sapores. The names of certain thus recited of Zozomen, and Nicephorus: Barbasines, Paulus, Gaddiabus, Sabinus, Mareas, Marcus, Johannes, Hormisdas, Papa, Jacobus, Romas, Maares, Agas, Bothres, Aldas, Abiesus, Johannes Abrianus, Agdelas, Sapores, Isaac, Dausus, Bitor, also with Mameanda his fellow Bishop, and the rest of his Churches under him, to the number of 250. persons. In sum, the number of those that the Persians themselves were able to recite, cometh to fifteen thousand men and women. Now these troubles coming to Constantine's ears, moved him to consider how to redress the Persecution, and there being at Rome Ambassadors of Sapores, with requests to the Emperor, he granted them all: thinking thereby, to move him to be favorable to the Christians: And wrote also unto him a letter, requiring him to take compassion upon those Innocents, and shown how the hand of God had been against tirants of the Church, as Valerianus, &c.

What success his letter had, it is uncertain: But likely it is, that it did somewhat mitigate the heat thereof. Of other troubles, it is recorded to have been in Persia, under Isdigerdes the king in the time of the Emperor Theodosius, at which time suffered Andas the bishop, and Homisda a great noble man's son of great reputation among the Persians: whom the king condemned to keep his Elephants naked, and seeing him a distance of time after, tanned with the Sun, promised him if he would deny Christ a shirt to cover himself withal: which whē he refused, he was banished the country. There was also one Suenes that had under him an hundred men: and because he would not deny Christ, the vilest of his servants was appointed over him and the rest, and coupled with his Masters wife.

Benjamin also, the deacon after two years imprisonment, was let loose at the request of the Romaine Ambassador: but afterward preaching contrary to the kings commandment, was thrust under the nails with xx sharp pricks. Wherat when the martyr laughed, a sharp reed was put up into his yard, and a long thorny stalk thrust up into his body, and so he died. These persecutions were about the year 425. [ 425]

Likewise under Julianus the Apostate, certain suffered martyrdom by Idolaters, as Emilianus, who was burned in Thracia, and Domitius, who was slain in his cave. Theodorus also for singing a Psalm at the removing of the body of Babylas, was tormented from morning till night, and hardly escaped with life: and being asked how he could abide the torments, said, at the first he felt some pain, but afterward, there stood by him a young man, who (as he was sweating) refreshed him in such sort, that being let down from the Engine it grieved him more than before. Artemias also the Captain of the Egyptian Soldiers, lost his head for Christ. Also, Eusebius, and Nestabus, two Brethren, with Nestor also, were murdered by the people of Gaza.

Euspicius, a noble man in the Country, died among thē of Cesarea, whereof, some were banished, some slain, for pulling down the temple of Fortune. But special was the cruelty of the Arethusians a people of Syria, against a company of Christian virgins, whom they first set out naked to be scorned of the multitude, then shaved them: then covered them with swill and draff, and caused them to be devoured of Swine. It is thought their cruelty was the greater, because Constantine restrained them of the exposing their virgins to filthy lust, and destroyed the temple of Venus in Heliopolis.

Among the rest, Marcus Arethusus their Bishop was most cruelly handled, because at the commandment of Constantine, he pulled down a temple of Idols, and built a Church for Christians in the place. Now they considering how he was not favored of Julianus, accused him of treason: who first fled, then hearing there were taken other for him, he returned again, & offered himself: whom when they had gotten, they first stripped naked, and beat him grievously, then they put him into a filthy sink, from whence again they took him, and caused boys to trust him in with sharp sticks. Lastly, they put him into a basket & anointed him with honey and broth, and hong him before the sun, as meat for wasps & flies to feed on. All this they did unto him, that he might be brought either to build again the temple, or give money to the building: which he refused. But at the last (taking him to be a poor man) they required but a small sum, which he also would not yield unto: answering y ^t it were as great impiety to confer one halfepeny to a matter of impiety, as a great sum: thus they being not able to prevail against him, let him down. And thus much of the persecution in y ^e primitive church, which agreeth with the time of the Apocalypse, taking every month for a sabbath of years: 42. Monethas, that make up just the time frō Christ's death, to the last year of persecutiō by Maxentius, which were 294. & six years under Licinius in Asia: in all 300. years, reckoning from the death of John the Baptist, to the end of Maxentius and Licinius: all which time Satan from the time of Licinius till John Wycliffe was bound up.

Constantine deferred baptism till his old age, because he determined a journey into Persia, and thought in Jordan to have been baptized. He entered into the Empire, Anno 311. and reigned 30. years, as Letus saith 32. lacking two months. He was borne in Brytaine. His mothers name was Helena daughter of king Coilus. He greatly traveled for the peace of Christians, and before he had conquered Licinius, wrote to his subjects inhabiting the East, in their favor. He set also peace among the Bishops in the Church, who were at dissention, and made provision for ministers and teachers of the people, and caused all to be restored unto the Christians that had been taken from them in the persecutions: writing to Sylvius his chief Captain, to that end, and commanded him that in Africa where he had to do, and where Cecilianus was bishop, that Clerks and ministers should be freed from all manner public duties & burdens. He was greatly studious in taking up causes among the bishops, and wrote to that end to diverse: as to Miltiades bishop of Rome, to Crescēs bishop of Siracusa, to Cecilianus bishop of Carthage: also to Eusebius for the edifying of new Churches. And after he had gathered the Nicene Council for the unity of the Church, he writeth to Alexander, and Arius to the same intent.

He prescribed a certain prayer for everyone of his soldiers instead of a brief Catechism, & caused them to learn the same, which is this: We acknowledge thee only to be our God, we confess thee only to be our king, we call upon thee our only helper: by thee we obtain our victories, by thee we vanquish our enemies, to thee we attribute whatsoever commodities we presently enjoy, and by thee we hope for good things to come: unto thee we direct all our suits, and petitions, most humbly beseeching thee to keep Constantine our Emperor and his noble children, to continue in long life, and to give them victory over all their enemies through Christ our Lord. Amen.

He granted great immunities to the ministers, that they might appeal from the civil judge to their bishop, whose sētense was of as great value in such cases, as if the Emperor himself had pronounced it.

He provided also maintenance for liberal arts and sciences, for the professors, their wives and children and gave thē great immunities. He wrote also to Eusebius the B. of Nicomedia, to procure 50. volumes of parchment, well bound, and cause to be written out of the scripture therein in a legeable hand, such things as were profitable for the instruction of the Church: and allowed him two ministers for the business. Finally, he was a father to the Church, and enforced himself every way to set forth the Gospel, and every good thing, and endeavored to suppress the contrary.

He was baptized at Nicomedia, of Eusebius Bishoppe of Nicomedia, in the 31. year of his reign, a little before his death.