Daily Gospel Reflection for November 9, 2025: Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica in Rome

Join us as we reflect, ponder, and pray together inspired by today's Gospel.

Reflection by Kathryn Mulderink

Today's Gospel: John 2:13-22

When we think of the pope, we usually picture St. Peter’s Basilica, which has become a symbol of the Catholic Church. But the actual cathedral of the bishop of Rome, the pope, is the Lateran Basilica. Today, we celebrate its dedication in 324 A.D., when it was established as the pope’s cathedral and residence, on property given by Emperor Constantine.  

The Basilica got its name from the Lateranus family, who owned the property before it was seized by Emperor Nero, and held by the Roman Empire for 250 years. When Constantine donated it to the Church, it was dedicated to St. John the Baptist and St. John the Evangelist, so it is often also referred to as St. John Lateran. 

There are many relics in the church, including the skulls of Sts. Peter and Paul in the baldacchino above the high altar, the actual wooden altar on which St. Peter and other popes are believed to have celebrated Mass in Rome (now  enclosed in a larger altar of stone and encased with marble), and the table on which the Lord celebrated the Last Supper. 

These are truly magnificent relics. Our earthly churches are important because they provide a proper space in which to worship and reserve the Eucharist in the tabernacle. But today’s readings remind us that the true temple is Christ Himself. It is through Christ that the waters of salvation flow, gladdening the City of God. And also WE are the Church; the Church is the Body of Christ, with Christ as the Head and we as the members. God dwells in each of us, and we must reverence every single person, “for the temple of God, which you are, is holy.”

Ponder:

As mothers, we build on a foundation we did not lay: Jesus Christ Himself. How can I be careful about how I build on this foundation within my family?

Pray:

Lord Jesus, you are the true Temple, not made by human hands, and every member of my family is a part of this great Temple. Give us the grace to grow more deeply in Your love, becoming more and more a part of You, to the glory of God. 

Copyright 2025 Kathryn Mulderink

Kathryn Mulderink, MA, is mother of seven, grandmother of 12, and president of the local Secular Discalced Carmelites. She has published five books. Over 30 years, she has worked in school and parish administration, and as a writer and voice talent for Catholic Radio. Currently, she serves the Church as a DRE, writer, and speaker, helping others encounter Christ. www.KathrynTherese.com