Letters of Ignatius 98

1Since I have been unable to write to all the churches because I sailed suddenly from Troas to Neapolis, as the divine will commands, you shall write to the churches ahead, as one who possesses the mind of God, so that they too may do this same thing: let those who are able send messengers, and let the rest send letters with the people you send, so that you may be glorified by an ever-memorable deed—for this is worthy of you.

2I greet everyone by name, especially the wife of Epitropus, together with her entire household and those of her children. I greet my beloved Attalus. I greet the one who will be appointed to go to Syria. Grace will always be with him, and with Polycarp, who sends him.

3I always bid you farewell in our God Jesus Christ. Remain in him, in the unity and supervision of God. I greet Alce, a name very dear to me. Farewell in the Lord.