The Creed, continued

We believe in God, the Father Almighty

Creator of heaven and earth,

of all that is seen and unseen.

We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ,

the only Son of God

eternally begotten of the Father,

God from God,

Light from Light,

True God from True God,

Begotten, not made,

One in being with the Father.

Through him all things were made.

For us and for our salvation

He came down from heaven.

By the power of the Holy Spirit

He was born of the Virgin Mary

and became man.

For our sake He was crucified under Pontius Pilate.

He suffered died and was buried.

And then the statement that it's really all about:

On the third day he rose again,

In accordance with the Scripture.

We Catholics recite the Nicene Creed in every Sunday Mass. I would hope that repetition never makes this statement go flat. This statement should set off a "GLORY, HALLELUIA!!!" reaction every time it's said.

If this statement is false, we base our whole faith structure on nothing. With Paul, we must observe: "If for this life only we have hoped in Christ, we are the most pitiable people of all" (emphasis mine.)

But no. That is not where we are. We hear the news from the angel at the tomb: "Why do you seek the living among the dead? He is not here, He is risen."

He is risen! He is risen indeed!

He ascended into heaven,

And is seated at the right hand of the Father.

He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead

And his Kingdom will have no end.

Next week - the rest of the Creed, and how one word contributed to a Churchwide split.

Thanks for hanging out for a few. Love your reactions!