credos

Credos, the plural of credo, are statements of belief or guiding principles that individuals, groups, or institutions adopt as a framework for thinking and action. The word comes from the Latin credo, meaning I believe. In English, credos can refer to formal statements of faith as well as more informal declarations of values.

In religious contexts, creeds function as concise summaries of essential doctrine and are used in worship and instruction. The Apostles' Creed and the Nicene Creed are among the best known; the Athanasian Creed is recognized in some traditions. Creeds articulate core beliefs about God, Jesus, the Holy Spirit, creation, and salvation, and they help establish doctrinal alignment within a community.

Outside church settings, credos appear as personal or organizational statements that express commitments and priorities. A personal credo may describe one’s view of truth, responsibility, and conduct; a corporate or professional credo can outline mission, values, and standards that guide decision-making.

Notable features and variations include differing emphases across religious and cultural contexts; some groups place liturgical weight on creeds, while others emphasize confessional statements or catechisms. The terms creed, credo, and confession are related but occasionally used with different nuance.

Credos, therefore, function as organized expressions of belief that guide thought and behavior across varied contexts.