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What is Sacred Tradition, and why does the Catholic Church teach that it is just as essential as Sacred Scripture? In this in-depth conference, Fr. Chad Ripperger explains one of the most misunderstood teachings of the Catholic Faith: the role of Sacred Tradition in preserving the Deposit of Faith entrusted by Jesus Christ to His Apostles.
Many people assume that “tradition” simply refers to customs, devotions, or practices that have developed over time. However, Sacred Tradition is far more profound. It is the living transmission of Divine Revelation handed down from Christ to the Apostles and faithfully preserved by the Church under the guidance of the Holy Ghost.
In this presentation, Fr. Ripperger explores the relationship between Sacred Scripture, Sacred Tradition, and the Magisterium, demonstrating how these three work together to safeguard the truth revealed by God. He explains why authentic Catholic doctrine cannot be understood apart from the Apostolic Tradition and how the Church has faithfully transmitted these teachings for nearly two thousand years.
Whether you are a lifelong Catholic, a convert, or someone seeking to better understand the foundations of the Catholic Faith, this lecture offers a clear and compelling explanation of why Sacred Tradition remains indispensable to the life of the Church.
In This Conference
- What Sacred Tradition actually is
- The difference between Sacred Tradition and human traditions
- How the Apostles handed on Divine Revelation
- The relationship between Sacred Scripture and Sacred Tradition
- The role of the Magisterium in preserving authentic doctrine
- The meaning of the Deposit of Faith
- Why Tradition protects the Church from doctrinal error
- Common misconceptions about Catholic Tradition
- Why Sacred Tradition matters for Catholics today
Why Sacred Tradition Matters
Christ did not leave behind a book alone—He established a Church. Before the New Testament was ever completed, the Apostles preached, celebrated the sacraments, ordained bishops, and handed on the Faith through Sacred Tradition. The Scriptures themselves arose from the life of the Church and are inseparable from the Apostolic Tradition that gave them their context.
Understanding Sacred Tradition helps Catholics appreciate how the Church has preserved the fullness of Divine Revelation throughout every age, remaining faithful to the teachings entrusted once for all to the saints.
About Fr. Chad Ripperger
Fr. Chad Ripperger is a Catholic priest, theologian, philosopher, author, and internationally recognized speaker. Known for his clear Thomistic teaching and faithful presentation of Catholic doctrine, he has helped countless Catholics deepen their understanding of theology, the spiritual life, virtue, the sacraments, spiritual warfare, and the perennial teachings of the Church.
His conferences continue to provide faithful Catholics with a deeper appreciation for Sacred Tradition, sound philosophy, and authentic Catholic theology.
Watch More from Fr. Chad Ripperger
If you found this conference helpful, be sure to explore our growing collection of Fr. Chad Ripperger’s lectures covering:
- Catholic Theology
- Spiritual Warfare
- Thomistic Philosophy
- Virtue and Vice
- The Sacraments
- Prayer and the Spiritual Life
- The Traditional Latin Mass
- Catholic Doctrine
- Moral Theology
- The Saints and the Interior Life
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sacred Tradition?
Sacred Tradition is the living transmission of Divine Revelation entrusted by Jesus Christ to the Apostles and faithfully preserved by the Catholic Church. Along with Sacred Scripture, it forms the Deposit of Faith.
Is Sacred Tradition equal to Sacred Scripture?
Yes. The Catholic Church teaches that Sacred Scripture and Sacred Tradition both flow from the same Divine Revelation. Together they are authentically interpreted by the Church’s Magisterium.
What is the Deposit of Faith?
The Deposit of Faith is the complete body of Divine Revelation entrusted by Christ to His Apostles and preserved through Sacred Scripture and Sacred Tradition.
Why is Sacred Tradition important?
Sacred Tradition preserves the authentic teachings of Christ, protects the Church from doctrinal error, and ensures that the Faith handed down by the Apostles remains intact throughout every generation.
What is the Magisterium?
The Magisterium is the teaching authority of the Catholic Church, exercised by the Pope and the bishops in union with him. It faithfully interprets Sacred Scripture and Sacred Tradition without adding to Divine Revelation.
