Parts of the Mass - The Credo
...by Clement
The Creed or Credo in the traditional Latin Mass is not very different from the one used in the vernacular. But those new to the Latin Mass may be surprised to find that 'Credo' means 'I believe' rather than 'We believe' as they are accustomed to hearing.
In both the traditional Latin Mass and in the Latin version of the Novus Ordo the word is 'Credo'. 'We believe' would be 'Credimus' in Latin.
It is not incorrect to say that 'we believe' these things, but it is an incorrect translation which even a child could detect. So why does the original text say 'Credo' rather than 'Credimus'?
When we die and we stand before God in judgment, we will be judged on our own faith and works. We are not judged as a group.
In Mark 16:16 Jesus says "He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved: but he that believeth not shall be condemned." Faith and Baptism are essential for salvation.
In the Credo, we speak for ourselves when we profess our faith, because in the end we will be judged on what we ourselves believe; Not on what the group we belonged to believed.
by Clement
Comments (1)
Excellent commentary. I have never seen such a precise explanation of the importance of saying "I believe".
Thanks Clement!
Posted by Mary Alexander | September 26, 2007 8:44 PM
Posted on September 26, 2007 20:44