Articles

Study guides, historical commentary, and theological reflection on the Nicene Creed.

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nicene creedFilioque controversy — the one word that split Eastern and Western Christianity

The Filioque Controversy: One Word That Split the Church

The Great Schism of 1054 that divided Eastern and Western Christianity had many causes, but at its theological center was a single Latin word: filioque. Here is why it mattered so deeply that it split the church in two.

Rev. C•D•F• Warrington, M.Div.

By Rev. C•D•F• Warrington, M.Div.

Ordained Minister, M.Div.

Date

April 18, 2026