The Council of Nicaea is know for its formulation of the Nicene Creed, a simple yet powerful statement of Christian faith that clearly affirms Jesus is fully God. The council met to stop a false teaching that denied this, and the creed helped protect true Christian beliefs. It also tried to bring unity to the Church by giving all Christians a shared faith to agree on. This creed still brings Christians together today and guides what they believe. The Council of Nicaea also set an example for later church meetings to keep explaining and defending Christian teachings.
On Thursday, the Vatican released a special document to honor the 1,700th anniversary of the Council of Nicaea, which took place in 325 during the time of Pope Sylvester I. The International Theological Commission published the document titled “Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior” to highlight the Council’s importance, especially its defence of Jesus’ divinity during a time when this belief was being challenged. The Nicene Creed, created at this Council, is still seen as a core statement of Christian faith. The Vatican said the document is more than just history—it aims to bring Christians closer together and encourage Catholics to take part in the life of the Church. The anniversary happens during a special Church year called the Jubilee, themed “Christ Our Hope,” and is especially meaningful as Christians from the East and West are celebrating Easter at the same time. A special event to study the document will be held on May 20 in Rome.
INTERNATIONAL THEOLOGICAL COMMISSION
PRESS RELEASE
Publication of the Document
Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior:
1700th Anniversary of the Ecumenical Council of Nicaea (325-2025)
