I believe that the Son of God,¹ out of the whole human race,² from the beginning of the world to its end,³ gathers, defends, and preserves for Himself, ⁴ by His Spirit and Word,⁵ in the unity of the true faith,⁶ a church chosen to everlasting life.⁷ And I believe that I am⁸ and forever shall remain a living member of it.⁹