Dear Parishioners and Friends,
Today (9th of November) we celebrate the Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica in Rome. The Lateran Basilica is different from other local churches (like our own St. Bernadette church). It is a feast for the whole Church, reminding us of who we are and what we are called to be.
The reason is that the Lateran Basilica, officially known as the Archbasilica of the Most Holy Saviour and of Saints John the Baptist and John the Evangelist, is the cathedral of the Bishop of Rome, the Pope. It is the mother and head of all churches in the world. As such, it symbolizes the unity of faith and love of all Catholics, gathered under one shepherd.
Historically, the basilica is the oldest church building in the Western world. It was given to Pope Silvester by the Emperor Constantine in the early fourth century, shortly after Christianity was legalized. The church was dedicated around the year 324 and has been rebuilt and restored many times since, surviving fires, earthquakes, and invasions. Through the centuries, it has remained a sign of the enduring presence of the Church and the faith that no earthly power can destroy.
This feast is not only about a magnificent church building in Rome. It invites us to reflect on a deeper truth: the Church is built of living stones, the people of God. Each one of us, through baptism, has become a temple of the Holy Spirit. St. Paul reminds us:“You are God’s building… Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?” (1 Cor 3:9,16).
The dedication of a church also reminds us of our own dedication to God. Just as a church is set apart for worship, so our lives are meant to give glory to God through love, prayer, and service. The beauty of any church building is meant to reflect the beauty of the Christian soul and community that prays within it.
Today’s feast, therefore, celebrates both our unity with the universal Church and our personal call to be living temples of God’s presence in the world. Do you feel part of this church?
God bless you.
Fr Silvio
God bless you,
Fr Silvio