The word "creed" comes from the Latin credo "I believe." That the teachings of Christianity were to be cast in some definite form is implied in the commission given the Apostles (Matt. 28:19-20). They were to teach all nations to observe Christ's commandments, and this teaching was to carry the weight of authority. The Apostles needed to be able to state clearly just what it was that they were teaching.
The Nicene Creed as the authoritative summary of the chief articles of the Christian Faith, together with the Apostles' Creed and the Creed of St. Athanasius are received and believed by us in the sense they have had always in the Catholic Church.
We acknowledge that rule of faith laid down by St. Vincent of Lerins: Let us hold that which has been believed everywhere, always and by all, for that is truly and properly Catholic
