Sunday 9 November 2008

The Dedication of the Lateran Basilica

Today the universal Church celebrates the feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica, the Cathedral Church of Rome (and therefore, in a certain sense, the Cathedral Church of the World). It is also Remembrance Sunday, when we pray for those who have died in conflict. The feast of the Lateran Basilica reminds us of our worldwide communion, the faith of the Church united with the Pope across all ages and in all places. May our prayers today bring eternal rest to those who have died in war and may they bring a greater peace and unity to our world.