The Early Church (30 CE – 300 CE)
Trace the Church's journey from a small band of disciples in Jerusalem to a faith that spanned the Roman Empire. These first three centuries saw explosive growth, fierce persecution, and the emergence of the structures that define Catholic Christianity.
From Jerusalemto the Empire
The Church was born at Pentecost when the Holy Spirit descended upon the apostles in Jerusalem. From that upper room, the faith spread with astonishing speed: first to the Jews of the diaspora, then to the Gentiles, until within a generation Christians could be found in every major city of the Roman Empire.
Growth came at a cost. The Roman authorities viewed Christians with suspicion, and periodic persecutions claimed thousands of martyrs. Nero blamed Christians for the great fire of Rome; Decius demanded universal sacrifice to the gods; Diocletian launched the most systematic persecution of all. Yet the blood of the martyrs proved to be the seed of the Church.
By 300 CE, the Church had developed the essential structures it retains today: bishops succeeding the apostles, the canon of Scripture taking shape, the liturgy centred on the Eucharist, and a clear distinction between clergy and laity. The stage was set for Constantine's conversion and the transformation that would follow.
At a Glance
“See how these Christians love one another.”
Tertullian
Reporting pagan observations of the early Church
Our Roots
The early Church faced challenges we can scarcely imagine, yet grew stronger through every trial. Their courage and faith remain an inspiration for Catholics today.