To complete this assignment, you may use the class slides, the Scriptures, and any of the pertinent writings of the four Apostolic Fathers we surveyed during our first class. Please write a one page response using the following three prompts:

1) Biblical foundation: What is one biblical image or scriptural passage that in your estimation most clearly shows the Church as something with a divine origin, founded by Christ, and meant to be unified? Why?

2) Early Church Fathers: Which Father(s) of the Church made the strongest case to you for apostolic succession, church unity, or the Eucharist, and why? You may mix and match among the four Fathers in your answer.

3) Ministry application: What relevance do you believe familiarity with the Fathers of the Church (and Church history in general) has in relation to your parish ministry?

2026 - Early Church Fathers Assignment