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History of the Franks
St Gregory of Tours, tr. Dalton, 1927
Book 1, Of Hadrian and the Inventions of the Heretics; and of the Passion of the Holy…
After him, Helius1 Adrianus was created emperor; from this successor of Domitian Jerusalem received the name of Helia, from Helius Adrianus the emperor. After these martyrdoms of saints, it did not suffice the Adversary to have excited unbelieving peoples against the followers of Christ; he must needs also rouse schisms among the Christians themselves. He stirred up heresies; the Catholic faith was divided and torn in different ways. For in the reign of Antoninus arose the mad heresy of Marcion and Valentinus; and Justin the philosopher, after writing his books in defence of the Catholic Church, was crowned with martyrdom for the name of Christ. And in Asia, a persecution arising, the most blessed Polycarp, the disciple of John the apostle and Evangelist, was consecrated by fire to the Lord, a most pure burnt-offering, in the eightieth year of his age. In Gaul also many were crowned with celestial gems, martyrs for the name of Christ: the history of whose Passions is faithfully preserved among us to this day.
Notes
- For Aelius, as Helia (below) for Aelia.