Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. Romans 12:17-19
Angelo (1220)
Prayed for Murderers
Angelo, the son of Jewish converts to Christianity, was born in Jerusalem and set out for Sicily as a result of a vision. Many people became Christians through his teaching and miracles during the journey, including over 200 Jews at Palermo. While he was preaching at Leocata he was killed by a gang who were offended by his message. He was still praying for his murderers as he died at the scene of the attack.
As the first martyr Stephen prayed to thee for his murderers, O Lord, so we fall before thee and pray: forgive all who hate and maltreat us and let not one of them perish because of us, but may all be saved by thy grace, O God the all-bountiful.
Eastern Church
Jerusalem the glorious! Glory of the elect!
O dear and future vision that eager hearts expect!
Even now by faith I see thee, even here thy walls discern;
To thee my thoughts are kindled, and strive, and pant, and yearn.
Jerusalem, the only, that look’st from heaven below,
In thee is all my glory, in me is all my woe!
And though my body may not, my spirit seeks thee fain,
Till flesh and earth return me to earth and flesh again.
Bernard of Morlaix (fl. 1146)
Translated by John M. K. Neale (1818-1866)