Historically, basilica of St. John Lateran is the cathedral church of the bishop of Rome, the Pope, even though many of the Catholic faithful think the Basilica of St Peter would be his cathedral. The Lateran Basilica has the title “Mother and Head of all the Churches in the City and in the World.” The original church of St John Lateran was dedicated on 9 November 324 AD. Over the centuries, this basilica has been destroyed or damaged by earthquakes, fires, and attacks. Despite all these setbacks, the Basilica has been rebuilt and restored many times.
We live in a world where there is a lot of division and discord. The message of the Church as a community of Christ’s love is so important to the world today. Many families have been divided or have broken down. Many lives are overtaken by anger and bitterness. Many people are lonely and do not know where to turn. Public and political life is full of attacks and harsh rhetoric. There is a lot of violence and crime on our streets. Healing and wholeness is needed in the midst of this reality. Paul wrote his letter to the Corinthians to give advice to a community that was badly divided, telling them to see themselves as the Temple of God and to feel the Holy Spirit working within them.
St Paul made it his mission to help people know Christ and to proclaim Christ’s Gospel message to the world. The purpose of the Church is to create opportunities for people to encounter Christ, and to receive his love and healing. Sharing our time and our expertise creates an environment where God’s love can grow in us, as individuals and as a community. Our parish activities, our outreach, and our buildings give visibility to our faith. They remind us of God’s presence and help us experience God’s love.