Feast of the Anniversary of the Consecration of the Lateran Basilica
Many people mistakenly believe that St. Peter's Basilica is the most important papal church. In fact, the Basilica of St. John Lateran is the pope's cathedral and has a significant history in Christianity. This basilica, one of Rome's four major basilicas, was consecrated by Pope St. Sylvester I on November 9, 324.
The basilica’s name comes from the Lateran family, who originally owned the land. Emperor Constantine the Great bestowed their palace to Pope St. Sylvester after allowing the Christian faith to be practiced openly. The basilica became the first cathedral of Rome.
Though it ceased to be the popes' residence following the Avignon captivity in the early fourteenth century, the Lateran Basilica holds exceptional importance today. It is recognized as the archbasilica, and newly elected bishops participate in a solemn procession to it. The Latin inscription above its entrance, "Mater et Caput omnium Ecclesiarum Urbis et Orbis," translates to "Mother and Head of all churches of the City and the World."
The basilica is notable for hosting various liturgical celebrations, including Mass at the start of Lent and Holy Thursday. Nearby are the "Holy Stairs," brought from Jerusalem in 326, believed to be the steps Christ ascended to face Pilate.
As the pope's cathedral, the Lateran Basilica serves as a parish for all Catholics. Initially celebrated only in Rome, this feast spread through the efforts of the Augustinian monks and was incorporated into the liturgical calendar by Pope St. Pius V in 1570.
Today, we express gratitude for all churches built by the faithful. Each church symbolizes the living house of God, just as the Lateran Basilica, the first Catholic church dedicated to God, embodies the unity of the Church founded on Christ and Peter.
