What is the holy catholic Church?

The Apostles’ Creed contains a powerful declaration: “I believe in the holy catholic Church.” Some hear these words and associate them with the Roman Catholic Church. However, the true understanding of this phrase is quite distinct and rich in meaning.

The term “catholic” refers to the universal nature of the church. It’s not about denominational boundaries, but about the entire body of Christ—believers from every nation, tongue, and epoch who are united in their belief in the life, death, resurrection and ascension into heaven of Jesus Christ, the son of God. This universal church spans time and space, from the early apostles to modern-day followers of Christ.

Believing in the holy catholic Church implies a recognition of the church as a divinely instituted body, set apart for God’s purposes. It’s the community where God’s Word is preached, sacraments are administered, and discipline is exercised. The church is holy, not because of the inherent righteousness of its members, but because of its connection to Christ, who sanctifies and sustains it.

The church is the visible manifestation of God’s kingdom on earth. It’s through the church that the gospel is proclaimed, disciples are made, and God’s covenant promises are realized. The church isn’t just an optional add-on for individual believers; it’s the primary means through which God works in the world.

The phrase “I believe in the Holy Catholic Church” underscores the unity and fellowship believers share. Despite diverse backgrounds and local expressions, there is a fundamental oneness in Christ. This unity is a testimony to the world of God’s reconciling work through Jesus.

In this phrase Christians proclaim that the church, in all its messiness and glory, is God’s chosen instrument to bring His redemptive plan to fruition. It’s a call to value, participate in, and uphold the church as an essential aspect of one’s faith journey.

If you would like to know how one becomes a member of this holy catholic church, we encourage you to read our post: How Can I Become A Christian?

The Apostles Creed

I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth.
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.
I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. Amen.