Feast of Dedication of Lateran Basilica
Readings:
Ezekiel 47:1-2,8-9,12
John 2:13-22
Reflection:
Today, we celebrate the Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica, the oldest and most important church in Rome, known as the “Mother and Head of all Churches.” This feast reminds us that the church is more than just a building; it’s a sacred place where God dwells among us and where we, as the Body of Christ, come together in faith. The Lateran Basilica stands as a symbol of unity for Catholics around the world, reminding us that we are all part of the universal Church, sharing one faith, one hope, and one mission in Christ.
A little child once answered, “This is where God lives,” when asked what a church is. And how true that is! In a world where it’s easy to forget God’s presence, our churches, like the Lateran Basilica, serve as reminders that God is near — right here with us, welcoming us with open arms. The physical beauty and grandeur of our churches may inspire us, but it is their spiritual purpose that truly matters. They are places where we encounter God’s grace, feel His presence, and are refreshed by the life-giving waters of faith.
When we gather here in this church, much like Christians around the world gather in their own places of worship, we are reminded that we belong to something greater. St. Paul calls us “God’s building” and “the Body of Christ.” The Lateran Basilica may be in Rome, but its dedication calls us to reflect on the unity we share as one Church, spread across nations and cultures, yet united in our shared love for Christ. Together, we become a living temple, a place where God’s love and grace reside.
As we honour the dedication of this great basilica, let us remember the blessings we receive in our own sacred spaces. May our own church be a place of welcome, a place of healing, and a place where God’s light shines for all to see. Like the Lateran Basilica, may our lives reflect the beauty and love we encounter here, becoming beacons of hope in a world that longs for God’s presence.
Giltus Mathias CP, Parish Priest at St Brigid Marrickville.