The Baptismal Covenant and Creeds

The Baptismal Covenant is a wonderful expression of our faith and our vows to follow in the way of Jesus Christ.  The first three questions use the Apostles’ Creed to affirm our belief in the triune God – Father, Son and Holy Spirit.  The following five questions are descriptive ways in broad terms of what it means to be a Christ-person.  Everyone is invited to provide the specificity of what that looks like in his or her personal life.  The Baptismal Covenant is used in the liturgy for Baptism (child or adult) and Confirmation.  This is also included in the celebration of the Great Easter Vigil, The Baptism of Jesus, Pentecost and All Saints Sunday.  (Book of Common Prayer, p.304)

Celebrant:  Do you believe in God the Father?

People:  I believe in God, Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth.

Celebrant:  Do you believe in Jesus Christ, the Son of God?

People:  I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord.  He was conceived by the power of the holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary.  He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died and was buried.  He descended to the dead.  On the third day he rose again.  He ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father.  He will come again to judge the living and the dead.

Celebrant:  Do you believe in God the Holy Spirit?

People:  I believe in the Holy Spiri, the holy catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting.

Celebrant:  Will you continue in the apostles’ teaching and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in the prayers?

People:  I will, with God’s help.

Celebrant:  Will you persevere in resisting evil, and, whenever you fall into sin, repent and return to the Lord?

People:  I will, with God’s help.

Celebrant:  Will you proclaim by word and example the Good News of God in Christ?

People:  I will, with God’s help.

Celebrant:  Will you seek and serve Christ in all persons, loving your neighbor as yourself?

People:  I will, with God’s help.

Celebrant: Will you strive for justice and peace among all people, and respect the dignity of every human being?

People:  I will, with God’s help.

The Apostles’ and Nicene Creeds

The Apostles’ Creed is the oldest formal statement of faith in the Christian Community.  This creed was written in the late second century and reflects the core beliefs of Christianity. We use the Apostles’ Creed primarily with the Daily Offices of Morning and Evening Prayer. (BCP p. 96 & 120) 

The Nicene Creed, adopted in 325, is another formal statement of faith used by many denominations of the Church.  This creed is used in the Episcopal Church with every celebration of the Holy Eucharist and gives everyone the opportunity to affirm their faith in unison with those who are present and those who have shared this faith over the centuries.  (BCP p. 358)