Old Roman Creed
I believe in God the Father almighty;
and in Christ Jesus His only Son, our Lord,
Who was born from the Holy Spirit and the Virgin Mary,
Who under Pontius Pilate was crucified and buried,
on the third day rose again from the dead,
ascended to heaven,
sits at the right hand of the Father,
whence He will come to judge the living and the dead,
and in the Holy Spirit,
the holy Church,
the remission of sins,
the resurrection of the flesh
(the life everlasting).
A Short History of the Old Roman Creed
Are you curious about the origins of one of the oldest Christian creeds in history? Let’s take a deep dive into the fascinating history of the Old Roman Creed and uncover its significance in the development of early Christianity.
Introduction to the Old Roman Creed
The Old Roman Creed, also known as the Apostles’ Creed, is a statement of faith that has been recited by Christians for centuries. It is believed to have originated in Rome in the 2nd century AD and was used as a baptismal confession for new believers. The creed is a concise summary of the core beliefs of Christianity and has played a crucial role in shaping Christian theology.
What is the Old Roman Creed?
The Old Roman Creed is a statement of faith that outlines the basic tenets of Christianity. It affirms belief in God the Father, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit, as well as the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. The creed is structured around the twelve apostles, with each section focusing on a different aspect of the Christian faith.
Origins of the Old Roman Creed
The exact origins of the Old Roman Creed (Romanum) are shrouded in mystery, but it is believed to have evolved from earlier baptismal formulas used in the early Christian church. Written somewhere between the years 125 and 135, though there are some contentions concerning that date. The Old Roman Creed is one of the first known statements of faith of Christianity, based on which later the Apostles’ Creed developed. It was originally written in the Greek language, and was translated into Latin by Rufinus of Aquileia.
The text may have been the the personal statement of faith of Marcellus of Ancyra. Over time, the creed was modified and adopted by churches throughout the Roman Empire. These modification became known as the Apostles’ Creed Apostles’ Creed (Symbolicum Apostolicum), which accepted in the church in Rome in the 4th century.
Importance of the Old Roman Creed
The Old Roman Creed holds a special significance in the history of Christianity. It served as a unifying statement of faith for believers from diverse backgrounds and helped to clarify the essential teachings of the Christian faith. The creed was recited during baptisms and worship services, reinforcing the core beliefs of the Christian community.
The Old Roman Creed Today
While the Old Roman Creed may have originated centuries ago, its influence can still be felt in modern Christian worship. Many churches continue to recite the creed as a symbol of unity and shared belief. The creed serves as a powerful reminder of the foundational truths of the Christian faith and continues to inspire believers around the world.
In conclusion, the Old Roman Creed stands as a testament to the enduring power of Christian doctrine. Its concise statements of faith have guided believers for centuries, and its influence can still be felt in the church today. By understanding the history and significance of the Old Roman Creed, we gain a deeper appreciation for the rich tradition of Christian faith that has been passed down through the ages.
