On the Church’s calendar, today is marked by the Feast of the Dedication of the Basilica of St. John Lateran. Most people probably think that St. Peter’s Basilica is the Pope’s main church in Rome. But actually, it is the Church of St John Lateran which is the Cathedral of the Diocese of Rome and, hence, “the Pope’s church” as Bishop of the Diocese.
On the front of the Basilica there is an inscription in Latin which reads, “The mother and mistress of all churches of Rome and the world.” We tend to forget that the Pope is primarily a Bishop, a first among equals, and that this Lateran church has a special and symbolic importance for the whole Church which is under his leadership and pastoral care.
Celebrating the anniversary of the dedication of the Holy Father’s Cathedral today is a way of expressing our unity with the whole Church. It is also a way we express the union of each local church with this church in Rome and, thus, is an expression of the unity of all churches both with Rome and with each other.
Let us pray. “Heavenly Father, may the people consecrated to you, your Church, receive the fruits and joy of your blessing. Grant, we beg you, that every place we gather to pray will be a place where we offer you fitting praise and pure worship. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you for ever and ever. Amen.”
