A formula of belief which contains in twelve statements or "articles" the fundamental doctrines of Christianity, and whose authorship tradition ascribes to the Apostles. It is not certain whether the Apostles themselves actually composed it. In substance, however, it may be attributed to them, for all its elements are found in the New Testament. At a very early date the Western Church required catechumens to learn and recite it before admitting them to Baptism.