Patristic teaching refers to the theological and doctrinal teachings of the early Christian theologians known as the Fathers of the Church, or the Patristic Fathers. This period is generally considered to extend from the apostolic era to the end of the eighth century. The Patristic Fathers played a crucial role in shaping and articulating the foundational doctrines of Christianity, responding to various theological challenges and controversies that emerged during the early centuries of the Church.