Homily: Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica
Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica
The Lateran Basilica is one of the four major Basilicas of Rome. The other three are St. Peter’s, St. Mary Major and St. Paul Outside the Walls. When a pilgrim goes to Rome it is customary to visit these four churches and offer prayers. Each church has its own unique history.
If we were to ask the typical Catholic what the cathedral church of Rome is probably people would say that it is St. Peter’s, but St. John Lateran is the Cathedral Church of Rome. For major diocesan celebrations the Pope goes to that church.
St. John Lateran is in the middle of the city. It is the oldest of the Basilicas with the beginnings of the church constructed in 324. The church has been remodeled and added on to since that time. It is dedicated to both John the Baptist and St. John the Evangelist. There is a big square in front of the church. One of the striking things about the basilica is that large statues of all the Apostles line the nave of the church.
Another striking feature is that across the street leading into one of the palaces are a series of stairs. The stairs were brought from Jerusalem. They are said to be the steps that led into the Praetorium of Pontius Pilate. Pilgrims climb the stairs on their knees saying a prayer on each step. It is impressive to see people from all over the world praying on these steps.
I have been to this church twice in my life. The church is a reminder of the political power the church once had. Hopefully, it is a reminder of the spiritual power the church still haves.
The Feast of John Lateran is a reminder of the universal nature of the church. The unity of the church is a strength as well as at times a liability. The church founded by the apostles guide us in our lives in matters of faith and morals. There are a billion Catholics throughout the world and the mother church for all of us is St. John Lateran.
Reflection Questions:
- Some would say that the church is not a building. Is it important to have sacred places like John Lateran as places of pilgrimage?
- What is a place I consider sacred? Why is that the case?
Dear Parishioners,
This month the Bishops of the United States will be gathering in Baltimore for their semiannual meeting. This will be the first time they will get together in person since the pandemic began.
It will also be an important meeting in that they will be debating a document on the Eucharist. There has been much controversy about their deliberations already. One of the primary Theologies of The Eucharist is that it is a sacrament of Christian Unity. Eucharist is what brings us together.
I think most bishops want to emphasize that idea. As Catholics who reflect the divisions in our society, we need Eucharist more than ever. When Catholics work together, we can be a force for much good in the world.
Pray for the bishops in their deliberations in the days ahead. May Mary and all the Angels and Saints watch over you today.
Fr. Mark