Athanasian Creed

[Lucia_Grace]

Hello,
When was the Athanasian Creed accepted by the Church, and why is it attributed to so many different potential authors? It seems to be a cornerstone of our faith, and yet I can’t find anything definitive as to its date.
Thank you!

 

[DavidFilmer]

When was the Athanasian Creed accepted by the Church

I’m not sure what you mean by “accepted.” The Nicene Creed was presented to and formally accepted by the Council of Nicea. AFAIK, no other Creed has ever done anything like this. The Athanasian Creed is one of dozens of Creeds which have been recited in various times and places.

and why is it attributed to so many different potential authors?

Well, nobody knows who wrote the Nicene Creed or the Apostle’s Creed, either (or when). Heck, we don’t know who wrote most of the Bible!

It seems to be a cornerstone of our faith

Although it is orthodox, the Creed itself is not “official” in any way.

 

[Br.Rich_SFO]

Hello,
When was the Athanasian Creed accepted by the Church, and why is it attributed to so many different potential authors? It seems to be a cornerstone of our faith, and yet I can’t find anything definitive as to its date.
Thank you!

It’s author is unknown, however it reflects the defense given by St. Athanasius which is why it carries his name. It was generally accepted some time after the Council of Chalcedon.