Sunday, November 9 - Dedication of the Lateran Basilica
-
Sunday, November 9, 2025Dedication of the Lateran Basilica
A Brief History
The Lateran Basilica, officially named the Archbasilica of the Most Holy Savior and of Saints John the Baptist and the Evangelist, is the cathedral church of the Bishop of Rome—the Pope. Built in the early 4th century by Emperor Constantine after Christianity was legalized, it is the oldest basilica in the Western world and is often called “the mother and head of all churches in the city and the world.”
Though St. Peter’s Basilica is more famous, the Lateran Basilica is the Pope’s cathedral. It has stood for more than 1,700 years as a symbol of unity for Catholics around the world. Despite fires, earthquakes, and even invasions, it has been rebuilt and restored as a sign of the enduring presence of Christ’s Church.
The annual feast, celebrated on November 9 since the 12th century, reminds us that while we honor this particular church in Rome, we are also celebrating the living temple of God’s people. As St. Paul writes, “You are God’s building… God’s temple is holy, and you are that temple” (1 Cor 3:9,17).
This day calls us to renew our gratitude for our own parish church, where we are gathered into one Body in Christ, nourished by Word and Sacrament, and sent forth to be His dwelling in the world.