The Basilica of St. John Lateran in Rome is the cathedral church of the Pope in his role as Bishop of Rome. Although St. Peter’s Basilica is better known, the Lateran holds a unique place in the Church and is traditionally called the “mother and head of all the churches of the city and the world.”

The basilica was first dedicated in the fourth century, after Christianity was granted legal freedom in the Roman Empire. The feast celebrates more than the anniversary of an ancient building. It points to the unity of the Church and reminds Catholics that every church building exists to serve a living community gathered in faith.