The Creeds: The Apostles’ Creed

The Apostles’ Creed is the shorter of the two creeds which are available for use on Sundays and greater feast days.

This creed originated as the creed used at baptism in the Church at Rome. Its most common use over the centuries has been at baptisms; its use at Mass is a more recent development. 

It is called the Apostles’ Creed but we do not have any evidence for having its origin among the apostles. But we do know that it was in early use in the Church at Rome, and from this stems the esteem with which it is regarded.

This creed has been used in the liturgy in question form. So at the Easter Vigil and on Easter Sunday, when we renew our baptismal promises, this creed is used but in the question form.  So the celebrant says “Do you believe in God the Father Almighty….?”  And the people respond “I do”.  Then there are two more questions regarding faith in Christ and then in the Holy Spirit.  To these, the people likewise respond “I do”. This form is used whenever baptismal promises are renewed such as at confirmations. 

The use of the Apostles’ Creed at Mass is recommended especially – but not only – during Lent and Eastertime. The reason for this is again the link to baptism. During Lent and Eastertime, adults becoming Catholics are preparing for and then celebrating their baptism and so this creed is deemed especially suitable in those times. 

Both creeds were originally called ‘symbols’, so the ‘Symbol of the Apostles’. The word symbol in its original Greek means to draw together. So calling the creeds symbols meant that they were seen as those formulae around which believers were drawn together. In them was expressed their common faith.

By Fr Frank O’Loughlin

Published: 3 November 2023