What is the feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica?
“This Basilica, dedicated to St. John the Baptist as well as to St. John the Evangelist, is rightly consecrated to the Most Holy Saviour. It is as if, today also, as throughout the centuries, we hear this voice ringing out on the banks of the Jordan. The voice of the Forerunner, the voice of the Prophet, the voice of the Bridegroom’s Friend. John spoke as follows: ‘He must increase, but I must decrease’ (John 3:30).”
– Pope St. John Paul II, Basilica of St. John Lateran (November 12, 1978)
On this feast day, we celebrate the anniversary of the Dedication of Rome’s Lateran Basilica in 324 A.D. In that year, Pope Sylvester established his cathedral and residence on property given to the Church by the Emperor Constantine. As the Cathedral of the Bishop of Rome and the Pope, it is the highest-ranking church in the world.
Today, we hope you’ll visit our page where we answer questions, such as:
- Why is it called the Lateran Basilica?
- Why is the Lateran Basilica important?
- What are the four major basilicas?
While you’re on our page, you can sign up for the free eBook, In Adoration of Our Lord. This eBook features photographs taken by the EWTN Vatican Bureau, as well as quotes from the three most recent popes – Pope St. John Paul II, Pope Benedict XVI, and Pope Francis – all expressing their devotion to Our Lord in the Holy Eucharist.
We hope this page and eBook inspire you on this feast day!