Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica in Rome
Posted by prepareformass on November 3, 2008
Prepare for Mass – Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica in Rome
Today’s Readings
Listen to the readings
Nothing can survive without water. Throughout scripture we read about water and it’s importance to creation. In Ezekial 47:1-12, the Lord shows the prophet a wonderful stream that is restorative in nature producing great blessings such as fruit for food and leaves for medicine.
During Christian Baptism, the person receiving this Sacrament is cleansed from the stain of Original Sin. Born again of water and spirit into Christ, incorporated into the death and Resurrection of Christ. The baptised becomes a member of the Body of Christ – a child of God.
A church building also has the opportunity to be dedicated. On November 9, the Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica in Rome is celebrated.
In many ways a church dedication is similar to a baptism because it’s structure is built of the living stones of God’s baptised people serving as the dwelling place of God among his people. The church building is a very important place. Jesus thought so highly of his Father’s house that when he saw money changers doing business in the temple, he got upset.
After this incident Jesus proclaimed himself to be the temple that will be destroyed and restored after three days. His listeners didn’t really understand what he was talking about until much later. Our bodies, because we are part of the body of Christ, are temples of the Holy Spirit. Each and every batpised Christian is the temple of God because God dwells inside you. For this reason, care must be taken to build on the foundation which is Christ.
Bridge over troubled water
The Marks of the Church
one – members professing the same faith in communion with the Pope
holy – the sanctity of the members flowing from the holiness of Christ
catholic – universal
apostolic – Christ founded the church through the apostles who true to the spirit of fidelity to Christ handed down the faith to future generations.
New Jerusalem
One Holy Catholic Apostolic
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