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Foundation Stone 4: Ecumenical Councils
Disagreements and conflicts arose occasionally in the history of Christianity.
In the early 4th century, Arius proclaimed Jesus was not God, but only the first and highest creature of God.
Conflict over the issue became so intense that Roman Emperor Constantine feared for the unity of his empire.
This controversy led to the establishment of Ecumenical Councils.
The first one took place in 325 CE to deal with Arius.
Emperor Constantine wanted the bishops to clarify the divinity of Jesus.
The Nicene Creed, still prayed today, came from this council.
Ecumenical Councils bring together bishops of all churches.
There have been 21 Ecumenical Councils in the history of the Church.
New converts to Christianity did not have to become Jewish first (like the Apostles) and undergo the rite of Circumcision before becoming Christian, but could become Christians directly.
Affirms God as the Trinity,and that Jesus is of one being with the Father and Holy Spirit, fully human and fully divine in one person.
The Catholic Church was becoming too political and corrupt and less spiritual, which led to the Protestant Reformation. It also reaffirmed
Catholic beliefs, reforming Catholic practices and worship, and having educated priests. This was known as the Catholic Reformation.
Updating the Church’s relationship with the modern and changing world. It addressed issues such as reforming the celebration of the Mass and greater participation by believers, ecumenical and interreligious dialogue, and recapturing the essential tradition of the Church regarding the call to holiness.
The Story of Christianity - Council of Nicaea. Play clip 1:-05:15-1:10:20
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