Blog Post 11/09/2023 Homily Cycle I – Offered at OLPH.

 

Homily Cycle I – Offered at OLPH.

Today, we celebrate the Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica. Constantine I, the first Christian Emperor gave to the Church.  It became the official residence of the Pope, on November 9, 324 Pope St. Sylvester I.  Today the Pope’s official residence since the 17^th century is Castel Gandolfo on Lake Albano south of Rome, The Vatican Palace.  However, Pope Francis lives in the Vatican guesthouse.

This feast holds great significance in the life of the Church, it reminds us that the Lateran Basilica is the place where the Church as a whole finds its foundation and unity.  It was the site of five Ecumenical Councils and is the “mother and head of all churches of Rome and the world.”

The Lateran Basilica is unique and each one of us has a unique role to play in the life of the Church, in particular in spreading the Gospel message to the world.  Foundational to that mission is the Eucharist, the source and summit of our faith.  The Eucharist is where we encounter the real presence of Christ, for spiritual nourishment and for the Grace to strengthen us.

 

The Lateran Basilica is the Pope’s episcopal seat, like St. Catherine’s in Allentown is for Bishop Schlert.  These physical structures point to the  more important; the spiritual center of the Church and for us Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior.

May the Grace of this feast day inspire us to deepen our love for the Church and our commitment to live as faithful disciples of Christ.

 

May God Be Praised.