Apostolic Tradition

Apostolic Tradition refers to the teachings and practices of the Christian faith that were handed down from the apostles—Jesus' original followers—through oral transmission and later writings. It complements the Bible, as many beliefs and rituals were established before the New Testament was written. For many Christian denominations, especially the Catholic and Orthodox Churches, Apostolic Tradition is vital as it provides context and helps interpret scripture, maintaining continuity and coherence within the faith. It underscores the importance of both written texts and the living witness of the Church throughout history.