The Nicene Creed

Introduction

• The Nicene Creed is a foundational statement of Christian faith recited during Mass.
• It is longer than the Apostles' Creed because it was formulated later.
• The name "Nicene" comes from Nicaea, a town in modern-day Turkey where the Creed was established during the Council of Nicaea in 325 AD.

Historical Context

• Council of Nicaea aimed to address theological disputes about Jesus's nature.
• Saint Nicholas was famously involved in a confrontation during the council.
• The Nicene Creed emphasizes Jesus as fully God and fully man.

Structure and Key Sections

Opening Statement

• Begins with "I believe in one God," marking a personal profession of faith.
• Transitioned from "we believe" to "I believe" to reflect individual commitment.

Jesus Christ's Nature

• Lines: "God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God."
• Addresses the question of Jesus's divinity within the Trinity.
• Analogous to lighting a candle from another, sharing divinity without diminishing the original.

Incarnation and Crucifixion

• Lines: "For us men and for our salvation, he came down from heaven."
• Signifies the Incarnation; believers bow during this part to honor the event.
• Mentions Pontius Pilate, highlighting the significance of his role in Jesus's death.

Second Coming

• Lines: "He will come again in glory."
• Affirms belief in Jesus's return (the Parousia) and the eternal nature of his kingdom.

Holy Spirit and Church

• Filioque Controversy: The line "proceeds from the Father and the Son" is debated between Eastern and Western Christianity.
• Church Attributes: One, Holy, Catholic, Apostolic.
  • One: The church should be united, reflecting the unity of the Trinity.
  • Holy: The church is holy, but marred by individual sins.
  • Catholic: Universal, extends to all places and people, and retains teachings from the Apostles.
  • Apostolic: Rooted in the teachings and succession of the Apostles.

Conclusion

• The Creed is a profession of faith, reflecting truths passed down through Apostolic succession.
• Encouragement to think deeply about its meaning during recitation.