The Church: A Symbol of our Unity in Faith

HOMILY FOR THE SUNDAY OF THE DEDICATION OF THE LATERAN BASILICA BY REV. AUGUSTINE ADETOLA

Today, we celebrate not just a building but the unity of the Church. The Feast of the

Dedication holds a prominent place in the liturgical calendar as it symbolizes the unity of

the Catholic Church. It serves as a reminder of the bond between us, the faithful and the

universal Church, with the Lateran Basilica acting as a physical representation of this

unity. This feast is an opportunity for us to reflect on the historical and spiritual

significance of the Lateran Basilica. It is a time to express gratitude for the enduring

faith that has been passed down through generations and to renew our commitment to the teachings of the Church. The Feast of the Dedication serves as a reminder of the rich

heritage and spiritual devotion that the Lateran Basilica represents.

The Lateran Basilica, also known as the Archbasilica of Saint John Lateran, is the oldest

and highest-ranking of the four major basilicas in Rome. Its history dates to the 4th

century when it was dedicated by Pope Sylvester I. This dedication marked a significant

milestone in the development of the Christian faith and the establishment of the Church

as an institution. The name “Lateran” comes from the Latin word “Lateranus,” which

refers to the family that donated the land on which the Basilica was built. The Laterani

family was a prominent Roman family, and their donation of the land for the construction

of the Basilica demonstrated their support and commitment to the Christian faith.

The dedication of the Lateran Basilica by Pope Sylvester I in the 4th century was a

momentous event. It symbolized the triumph of Christianity over paganism and marked

the beginning of a new era for the Church. The dedication ceremony was attended by

Emperor Constantine, who played a crucial role in the legalization of Christianity in the

Roman Empire. Throughout its history, the Lateran Basilica has witnessed significant

events and undergone numerous renovations and reconstructions. It has served as the

residence of the Popes, the site of important ecumenical councils, and a place of

pilgrimage for countless faithful.

The feast holds deep spiritual significance for us as Catholics. It serves as a powerful symbol of the unity of the universal Church, bringing together believers from different cultures, backgrounds, and traditions. The dedication ceremony itself represents the coming together of the faithful to consecrate a sacred space where they can gather to worship and celebrate their shared faith.

Moreover, the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica inspires us to embrace the call to be a

living temple of God. Just as the Basilica is a physical representation of the Church, we

are called to be living stones, united in faith and working together to build up the Kingdom of God. The dedication ceremony serves as a reminder that each of us has a unique role to play in the life of the Church and that our contributions, no matter how small, is essential to the overall mission of spreading the Gospel. The question that should occupy our thoughts today and throughout the week is what is my contribution to the unity of the Church? May the Lord help us to always stand with the church.

Amen.