act of faith

American  

noun

1. an act that demonstrates or tests the strength of a person's convictions, as an important personal sacrifice.

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act of faith British  

noun

1. Christianity an act that demonstrates or tests a person's religious beliefs

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act of faith Idioms  

1. Behavior that shows or tests a person's religious or other convictions, as in Rock climbing with a new, inexperienced partner was a real act of faith. The term is a translation of the Portuguese auto da fé, which referred to the sentencing and execution of heretics (often by burning at the stake) during the Inquisition, when punishing heresy was thought to constitute an assertion of faith. In modern times it is used for more benign circumstances. [Early 1700s]

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Example Sentences

For now, the preparations are an act of faith.

From The Wall Street Journal

As with an estimated 10 million other Mexicans who will make their way to the basilica this month, their journey had been an act of faith, of penitence, and of thanks.

From Los Angeles Times

“It was such an act of faith, because, you know, we’re in the middle of this incredible disaster.”

From Los Angeles Times

“Rainmaker is an act of faith.”

From The Wall Street Journal

“But Jesus stresses the importance of belief. To proclaim that Jesus is our lord and savior is an act of faith that everyone has to take on their own.”

From Los Angeles Times