1239

Sept. 4-17. Jerusalem. Patriarch Eraclius of Jerusalem addresses a general letter to all Christians. He reports the disaster [at Hattin] in which 25000 Christians were killed and the relic of the True Cross fell into the hands of the Sarraceni, togther with the king of Jerusalem and 3 bishops and their companions, who were all killed. The following cities have fallen to the enemy: Acre, Nazareth, Tiberias, Safra, Grangeli, Petit Geli, Sabast, Casal Sentgili, Nablus [Daplez], Betel, Mahumeria Gran, Rametez, Bethlehem, Hebron, Turco, Petita Mafumeria, Bertogo, Castel Arnal, Bel Veder, Sent George, Tyre, Ramla, Ascalon, Jaffa, Arsur, Jorgeria, Calcalia, Caesarea, Caco, Calanco, Merle, Haifa, Betinoble, Eibeli and also 30 castles [castra]. The infidels have lain with women on altars and stabled their horses in churches. The patriarch begs for help to save Jerusalem, which Saladin is approaching with an army. It is feared that he intends to besiege the city. The patriarch offers a plenary indulgence to all who come to its aid.