The Dedication of the Lateran Basilica

Story of the Dedication of St. John Lateran

Most Catholics think of St. Peter’s as the pope’s main church, but they are wrong. St. John Lateran is the pope’s church, the cathedral of the Diocese of Rome where the Bishop of Rome presides.

The first basilica on the site was built in the fourth century when Constantine donated land he had received from the wealthy Lateran family. That structure and its successors suffered fire, earthquake, and the ravages of war, but the Lateran remained the church where popes were consecrated. In the 14th century when the papacy returned to Rome from Avignon, the church and the adjoining palace were found to be in ruins.

Pope Innocent X commissioned the present structure in 1646. One of Rome’s most imposing churches, the Lateran’s towering facade is crowned with 15 colossal statues of Christ, John the Baptist, John the Evangelist, and 12 doctors of the Church. Beneath its high altar rest the remains of the small wooden table on which tradition holds Saint Peter himself celebrated Mass.

Categories: 

More News

Encounter 2025

May 2, 2025

A Diocesan-wide “Encounter” programme commences this Saturday 3 May at 9.30am in Clifton Cathedral followed by talks each Wednesday from 7 May to 4...Read more

David & Meg Scouller's 65th Wedding Anniversary

April 24, 2025

Blessed b y Fr Anthony at the 10am Mass on Tuesday 22 AprilRead more

Easter Message from Bishop Bosco

April 21, 2025

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Christ is Risen! Alleluia!

In this Jubilee Year of Hope, we celebrate Easter with hearts full...Read more

  •  
  • 1 of 293