Chapter I — On the «Creed» in general

1. What is the first part of Christian doctrine?

The first part of Christian doctrine is the Symbol of the Apostles, commonly called the Creed.

2. Why do you call the Creed the Symbol of the Apostles?

The Creed is called the Symbol of the Apostles because it is a compendium of the truths of the faith taught by the Apostles.

3. How many articles are there in the Creed?

There are twelve articles in the Creed.

4. Recite them.

1. I believe in God the Father Almighty, Creator of heaven and earth.

2. And in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord.

3. Who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary.

4. Suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried.

5. He descended into hell; on the third day He rose again from the dead.

6. He ascended into heaven; and sits at the right hand of God the Father Almighty.

7. From thence He shall come to judge the living and the dead.

8. I believe in the Holy Spirit.

9. The holy Catholic Church; the communion of saints.

10. The forgiveness of sins.

11. The resurrection of the body.

12. Life everlasting. Amen.

5. What does the word Credo, which you say at the beginning of the Symbol, mean?

The word Credo means: I hold as most true all that is contained in these twelve articles; and I believe these things more firmly than if I saw them with my own eyes, because God, who can neither deceive nor be deceived, has revealed them to the holy Catholic Church, and through her reveals them also to us.

6. What do the articles of the Creed contain?

The articles of the Creed contain all that is principally to be believed about God, about Jesus Christ, and about the Church, His spouse.

7. Is it very useful to recite the Creed often?

It is most useful to recite the Creed often, in order to impress the truths of the faith ever more deeply on the heart.