The Apostles Creed

History

The Apostles Creed, known in Latin as the Symbolum Apostolorum, had its origins in the period between the second and ninth centuries, with its earliest form being known as The Roman Creed during the period 150 - 200 AD.

According to legend it was written by the Apostles on the day of Pentecost. The earliest known written form of the creed is the Interrogatory Creed of Hippolytus which dates from about 215 AD. It was in question and answer form, and was probably used during the baptism of new believers.

The current form comes from the writings of Caesarius of Arles during the first half of the sixth century.

The Creed in English

I believe in God, the Father Almighty,
the Creator of heaven and earth,
and in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord:

Who was conceived of the Holy Spirit,
born of the Virgin Mary,
suffered under Pontius Pilate,
was crucified, died, and was buried.
He descended into hell.
The third day He arose again from the dead.
He ascended into heaven
and sits at the right hand of God the Father Almighty,
whence He shall 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 life everlasting.

Amen.