First Ecumenical Council

Synopsis

The First Council of Nicaea took place during the reign of the emperor Constantine in 325 AD. It was the first ecumenical (from the Greek oikumene meaning "worldwide") conference of bishops of the Christian Church. The council dealt with the problems raised by the Arian controversy, concerning the nature of Jesus, deciding against the Arians in favor of the doctrine of the Trinity.

Related topics

• Nicene Creed
• Arianism
• Trinity

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Main article

The First Ecumenical Council (also known as the First Council of Nicaea), which took place during the reign of the emperor Constantine in 325 AD, was the first ecumenical conference of bishops of the Christian Church.

The participating bishops were given free travel to and from their episcopal sees to the council, as well as lodging.

The council, also called a synod, dealt with the problems raised by the Arian controversy, concerning the nature of Jesus, deciding against the Arians in favor of the doctrine of the Trinity. The heresy of Arianism was causing intense controversy, and Constantine wanted to bring about peace. Essentially, the followers of Arius said that Christ was created by God the Father and that "there was a time when he was not."

Another result of the council was an agreement by all the Churches, through the agreement of their bishops, to celebrate Easter on the same day. As by far the most important feast of the Church's life, it was thought important for all to celebrate the Resurrection together.

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