Grade 6 Christian Religious Education The Church – The Apostles Creed Notes
The Apostles' Creed
Subject: Christian Religious Education — Topic: The Church — Subtopic: The Apostles' Creed
Target age: 11 years (Kenyan context)
What is a creed?
A creed is a short statement of important beliefs. Christians use creeds to say together what they believe about God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit. The Apostles' Creed is one of the oldest and most used creeds in many Kenyan churches (for example Catholic, Anglican, Methodist and some Presbyterian churches).
The Apostles' Creed (simple version)
I believe in God the Father Almighty, Creator of heaven and earth.
I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord,
who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary,
suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried;
he descended to the dead. 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 (meaning 'universal') Church, the communion of saints,
the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and life everlasting. Amen.
What each part means (easy words)
- God the Father Almighty, Creator — God made the world and cares for it.
- Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord — Jesus is God’s Son who leads us and taught us to love.
- Conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary — Jesus was born in a special way and was God’s gift to the world.
- Suffered, crucified, died and buried — Jesus died on the cross because he loved us and wanted to save us from sin.
- Rose on the third day — Jesus came back to life, showing that life with God is stronger than death.
- Ascended and will come again — Jesus went to heaven and will return one day to make everything right.
- Holy Spirit — God’s presence with us today, helping and guiding the Church.
- Holy catholic (universal) Church, communion of saints — The Church is all believers everywhere and we are connected with other Christians and those who lived faithfully before us.
- Forgiveness, resurrection, life everlasting — God forgives our sins; believers will live with God forever.
Why the Creed matters for the Church
- It helps Christians in Kenya and around the world say the same important truths together.
- Used in worship, baptism, confirmation and Sunday school to teach what we believe.
- Reminds us that the Church is a family that prays, forgives, and serves others.
- Gives comfort: the Creed speaks of Jesus' love, forgiveness and the promise of eternal life.
How to learn and use the Creed (fun ideas)
- Say it together in Sunday school or at home with your family — reading aloud helps you remember.
- Make actions for each line (e.g., hands open for "Creator", point to heart for "love", arms wide for "ascended").
- Draw a picture showing the Creed: God, Jesus, a dove for the Holy Spirit, and your church community.
- Memory game: cover some words and try to fill them in, or sing a simple tune to the Creed.
Short activity (10–15 minutes)
Write one sentence about what part of the Creed helps you trust God most. Then share this with a classmate or your teacher.
Quick questions (for class)
- 1. What is a creed? (Answer: A short statement of Christian beliefs.)
- 2. Name the three Persons mentioned in the Creed. (Answer: Father, Son, Holy Spirit.)
- 3. Where might you hear the Apostles' Creed in Kenya? (Answer: In church services, Sunday school, baptisms and confirmations.)
Teacher tip: Use local examples (e.g., your church building, a Kenyan hymn) to make the Creed come alive for the children. Keep explanations short and invite questions.