This is the Apostles Creed, as used in the Roman Catholic Church's liturgy.
This creed is considered to be a faithful summary of the Apostles' teaching. It is the ancient baptismal symbol of the Church at Rome. (See Catechism, 194.)
The Apostles Creed is one of the creeds that can be found in the Handbook of Prayers edited by James Socias.
I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended into hell. On the third day he rose again. He ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again to judge the living and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy Catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting.
Amen.
The Catechism has a side-by-side comparison of the Nicene Creed with the Apostles Creed (the link is to that Catechism page on the Vatican's website).
Be sure to see the Athanasian Creed, too. Though lesser-known, it's unique in its detailed and beautiful description of the Holy Trinity.
The Apostles Creed and the Catholic Nicene Creed are the most common creeds used in the daily life of the Roman Catholic Church.
---
You can return to the main article on the basic Tenets of Catholicism, or go to our home page to see the other articles about the Catholic faith.