Holy ghost Quote by Charles G. Herbermann
““the formulation of the symbol of the First Ecumenical Council, of which the following is a literal translation: We believe in one God the Father Almighty, Maker of all things visible and invisible; and in one Lord Jesus Christ, the only begotten of the Father, that is, of the substance [ek tes ousias] of the Father, God of God, light of light, true God of true God, begotten not made, of the same substance with the Father [homoousion to patri], through whom all things were made both in heaven and on earth; who for us men and our salvation descended, was incarnate, and was made man, suffered and rose again the third day, ascended into heaven and cometh to judge the living and the dead. And in the Holy Ghost. Those who say: There was a time when He was not, and He was not before He was begotten; and that He was made our of nothing (ex ouk onton); or who maintain that He is of another hypostasis or another substance [than the Father], or that the Son of God is created, or mutable, or subject to change, [them] the Catholic Church anathematizes.””
About This Quote
Source Encyclopedia article (Catholicism)
The Nicene Creed defines the Trinity, affirming God’s nature and condemning heresies.
In simple terms: Creed defines God’s nature.
Key Takeaway
Study the creed’s meaning.
Themes
theology
faith
doctrine
Mood
solemn
educational
Type
doctrinal
historical
When to use this quote
- religious education
- faith formation
- interfaith dialogue
Key Concepts
Trinity
Christology
hermeneutics
ecumenical councils
Questions to Reflect On
- What does “homoousion” mean to you?
- How does this creed shape belief?
A Different Perspective
Complex theological language can be inaccessible.
