Why is the Nicene Creed still important today?
Catechism Meditation:
The Niceno-Constantinopolitan or Nicene Creed draws its great authority from the fact that it stems from the first two ecumenical Councils (in 325 and 381). ―No. 195
During the first centuries the Church sought to clarify her Trinitarian faith, both to deepen her own understanding of the faith and to defend it against the errors that were deforming it. This clarification was the work of the early councils, aided by the theological work of the Church Fathers and sustained by the Christian people’s sense of the faith. ―No. 250
REFLECTION: The Nicene Creed prayer settled the question of how Christians can worship one God and also claim that this God is three persons. “Creed” means “belief” and “Nicene” is a reference to the first Ecumenical Council held in Nicea in the year AD 325. The Council was convened to address the error of Arianism (which taught that Jesus was not divine, but human). Nicaea was important for drawing a line between Christian faith and Arianism who were denying key aspects of Jesus’ Being and of the Trinity. The Nicene Creed was universally adopted and quickly became a key document for churches to spell out what we believe.
Like the trusty reminder apps on our smart phones, the Nicene Creed reminds us why we go to Mass each week and try to live a Christ-like life once we leave the doors of the church. It’s a handy, summary of everything we believe in. While fads come and go, this simple, profession of faith is still relevant today as it was 1,700 years ago. Just as in Emperor Constantine’s time, we are still surrounded by people who say the Catholic teachings are far-fetched, disputable, or don’t make sense. In a world where it’s easy to idolize celebrities and athletes, we need the Nicene Creed to bring us back to the roots of our faith.
PRAYER. Father, strengthen our hearts and minds as we declare our belief in You, the Creator, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
Timeless Wisdom Quote:
“The only way to overcome error is to keep the truth in front of it.” ― Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen