New reflections released to mark 1700 years of the Nicene Creed

Commissioned to mark 1700 years since the Nicene Creed’s original development, and published by Church House Publishing, the booklet explores the theological depth and contemporary relevance of the Nicene Creed – one of the most enduring and universal expressions of Christian faith.

The Nicene Creed is one of the foundational statements of Christian belief, shared across most Christian traditions. It was first agreed at the Council of Nicaea in AD 325, a gathering of bishops from across the Christian world convened by the Emperor Constantine. The Council sought to resolve disputes about the identity of Jesus Christ and affirmed that he is “of one being with the Father”. The Creed was expanded in its present form at the First Council of Constantinople in AD 381. It sets out the Church’s faith in the Trinity - Father, Son and Holy Spirit - and has been recited in Christian worship down the centuries as a shared declaration of belief, unity and hope.

Structured as a 24-day devotional, We Believe: Exploring the Nicene Creed invites readers to engage prayerfully with each phrase of the Creed. Through daily Scripture passages, thoughtful commentary, prayers and prompts for reflection, the booklet encourages individuals and communities to explore what it means to say “we believe” in the context of today’s world.

Printed copies are available as single booklets or in packs of ten for use in parishes – for example, to accompany a sermon series, to support home groups, or to offer during confirmation preparation. The reflections will also be available via the Church of England’s Everyday Faith app from Monday 16 June, a day after the Church celebrates Trinity Sunday.

Downloadable resources, including social media graphics, logos, posters and a parish resource pack are now live at AChurchNearYou.com (login required). Churches are invited to make use of these at any other suitable time during 2025.

Dr Michael Ipgrave, Bishop of Lichfield and Chair of the Liturgical Commission, said:

“The Nicene Creed has been a cornerstone of Christian belief for 1700 years – a statement of faith that connects us not only to one another, but also to generations before us as well as to Christians across the world today. We Believe is a timely and beautifully written resource that will help churches explore this historic creed afresh, inviting reflection, deepening discipleship, and opening space for theological discovery. I warmly commend it to parishes, groups and individuals across the Church.”