Patristic

The Early Church Fathers

Pertaining to the writings of the holy Fathers of the Church, who are privileged witnesses of the apostolic tradition (CCC 78, 688). The patristic period generally refers to the first eight centuries of the Church, during which the great Fathers — such as Ignatius of Antioch, Irenaeus, Augustine, Ambrose, John Chrysostom, and Gregory the Great — shaped the Church's understanding of Scripture, doctrine, liturgy, and moral life. See Fathers of the Church.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the patristic period refer to? It refers to the first eight centuries of the Church, shaped by the writings of the holy Fathers like Augustine and John Chrysostom.