In the early days of the Church in Rome, the faithful could not openly attend liturgies. They could only secretly gather in caves on the city’s outskirts. The faithful only began to openly gather for liturgies after the Emperor Constantine started to believe in God. These meetings usually took place in the homes of noble families. Therefore, the architecture of the churches which were later built in Rome all bear resemblance to the common residence.

The Basilica of Saint John Lateran is the Mother Church of the Roman diocese as well as the Pope’s home parish. Hence, the liturgies celebrated at the basilica on important feast days are always presided over by the Pope. Conversely, Saint Peter’s Basilica, built in the 16th century, is often seen more as a destination for pilgrims.

Today we celebrate the “Dedication to Basilica of Saint John Lateran”; the focus of this celebration is the unity and harmony of the universal Church.

Jesus once said, “The true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth.” What we seek to build together is a community that is founded on love and collaboration.