Constantine and the Council of Nicaea, Second Edition: Defining Orthodoxy and Heresy in Christianity, 325 CE (Reacting to the Past?)

Before Constantine rose to power as the Roman emperor, the empire followed polytheistic beliefs. Any deviation from this tradition, particularly embracing Christianity, was met with severe punishment including imprisonment, torture, and execution. Christians were especially targeted as their faith was considered a “cult” at the time. However, after Constantine embraced Christianity, there was a significant shift. In 325 CE, Constantine summoned early Christian leaders to Nicaea (modern-day İznik in Turkey) to deliberate on matters pertaining to the governance and doctrines of a unified Christian church This gathering aimed to establish a single, cohesive, and catholic church that would unify the Roman world under one dominant religion.

In the game, students immerse themselves in the theological debates that defined the challenges and disagreements within the church leadership, addressing fundamental aspects of Christian beliefs. Can the bishops assembled at the council resolve these issues, or will the church face division or dissolution? The outcome of this conference holds the power to shape the trajectory of Christianity for centuries to come.

David E. Henderson is professor emeritus at Trinity College in Connecticut.