Part One: The Creed | Crash Course Catholi

I believe in God,
the Father almighty,
Creator of heaven and earth,
and in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord,
who was conceived by the Holy Spirit,
born of the Virgin Mary,
suffered under Pontius Pilate,
was crucified, died and was buried;
he descended into hell;
on the third day he rose again from the dead;
he ascended into 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 life everlasting.

Amen.

The Apostles’ Creed

The Apostles’ Creed expresses the heart of what we believe as Catholics. It’s one of the oldest and most trusted statements of faith, passed down through generations since the early Church. In just a few lines, it reminds us of the key truths of our faith — belief in God the Father, Jesus Christ His Son, and the Holy Spirit. It also reflects our hope in the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and everlasting life with God.

When we say the Apostles’ Creed, we join with Catholics around the world in professing the same faith shared by the apostles themselves. It’s a powerful reminder that we are part of a global and timeless Church, united by what we believe and how we live out that faith each day. Whether recited during Mass, the Rosary, or personal prayer, the Creed strengthens our connection to God and to one another as members of His Church.

The first part of the Catechism of the Catholic Church explains and expands on the Apostles’ Creed. The topics below correspond to different sections of the Creed. As you explore them, you’ll discover in greater depth what it means to be Christian.

Faith & the Existence of God

Resources