The Apostles' Creed

Ancient Statement of Faith | Used Since the 4th Century

One of the oldest and most widely recognized statements of Christian faith, used across denominations for over 1,500 years.

I believe in God, the Father almighty,
creator of heaven and earth.

I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord,
who was conceived by the Holy Spirit
and born of the virgin Mary.
He suffered under Pontius Pilate,
was crucified, died, and was buried;
he descended to hell.
The third day he rose again from the dead.
He ascended to heaven
and is seated at the right hand of God the Father almighty.
From there he will come to judge the living and the dead.

I believe in the Holy Spirit,
the holy catholic church,
the communion of saints,
the forgiveness of sins,
the resurrection of the body,
and the life everlasting.

Amen.

Historical Context

The Apostles' Creed is an early statement of Christian belief, a creed or "symbol." It is widely used by a number of Christian denominations for both liturgical and catechetical purposes.

While not written by the apostles themselves, it faithfully represents the apostolic faith passed down through the early church. The creed summarizes the essential beliefs of Christianity in a format that can be easily memorized and recited.