Fr Ed Homily 11-09-20

Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica

A little history about this basilica. It is recognized as the first basilica in Rome. The building was given to the church by the Lateran family in the year 324. Earthquakes and fire have destroyed this basilica several times, but it has been carefully rebuilt each time. What makes this basilica so special is that this is the basilica assigned to the Pope, not St Peter’s at the Vatican. Many people get this mixed up. So, we celebrate this feast day, not because of the building, but recognizing that the church of Christ is the Church within us, where He comes to dwell and make His home within us. This basilica is a symbol of that Church.

For a moment, think of yourself as the temple of God. Jesus is the cornerstone. No one else can be the cornerstone, He is the foundation. And upon this foundation, He adds each of us as a stone, building His Church. We each have a special role.

First, we are built upon those who gone before us, our families, more recently our parents. And in turn, our children will be laid upon the stones that represent us. As Church, we are not focused on ourselves but pray for those who have gone before us and again pray for our children who will follow. Each of us participating in the building of God’s Kingdom. This Church is the mother of countless children. Rejoice and be glad, we are part of God’s Kingdom.

May the Lord bless you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen