Sacred Roots Workshop

Ses s i on 5: The Great Confes s i on

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a. The Apostolic Tradition refers to the primacy of the canonical Scriptures in their testimony to the saving purpose and acts of God in creation, in Israel, and ultimately in Jesus Christ the Messiah.

b. The Hebrew Scriptures (our Old Testament) and the apostolic writings recognized as canonical (our New Testament) represent the authoritative source for Christian truth.

c. For believers, the Scriptures are final binding testimony on all issues of faith and practice for the Church at all times, and in all places.

d. It is by the Apostolic tradition that all other proposed traditions and practices must be weighed and judged.

e. They are inspired by the Holy Spirit of God, serves as the anchor and final authority for all things regarding theology and morality, faith and practice, our vision and our duty.

2. The Great Tradition represents that body of beliefs, practices and claims which are the core dogma (doctrine) of the Church.

a. This tradition was forged in the ecumenical councils of the Christian church, typically referred to as the first seven councils, with the first four being of special significance for non-Catholic and Orthodox traditions.

b. “Ecumenical” refers to the scope and import of the councils; they were of worldwide significance, con- vened with leaders from and for the entire believing Church of that time.