Homily: Feast of St. John Lateran

Feast of St. John Lateran (John 2:13-22)

When we think of where the Pope lives today everyone knows that he lives at the Vatican and St. Peter’s Basilica is the church where he celebrates most of his Masses. But St. Peter’s came along rather late in the history of the church. St. John Lateran is the cathedral church of the City of Rome. This is where the Pope lived for centuries. The papal palace was there as well. The first church was built on the site of St. John Lateran in the 4th century, and it has been destroyed and rebuilt several times.

The Pope who is the bishop of Rome celebrates Mass at St. John Lateran on several occasions during the year. Holy Thursday Mass is often presided over by the Pope at St. John Lateran.

When Pope Francis became Pope he was reluctant to receive the title Vicar of Christ. He seemed to want to be known as the bishop of Rome first and foremost. He saw himself as the successor of Peter who was the first bishop of Rome.

There are two theologies at work. Does the Bishop of Rome have primacy or is he first among equals? This has been an ongoing argument for the last two thousand years.

In the 19th century the Bishop of Rome (the Pope) assumed more and more power. Bishops around the world began to feel like branch managers. This departed from the long-standing tradition. Bishops were always seen as having authority over their diocese so that had autonomy in most areas.

The second Vatican Council which took place from 1961 through 1965 saw the bishops of the world come together. The bishops wanted to have the authority returned to them that they felt they had lost. The term collegiality was used in the Vatican II documents. Collegiality means that there is a shared responsibility in the church. Bishops share decision making with other bishops. Bishops and priests also share decision making in a diocese. And priests are asked to be collegial with their parishioners. Our common baptism is the most important sacrament. And it is that which gives status to all the People of God.

Reflection Questions:

1.    What is the sacrament that has changed my life the most? Was that sacrament Baptism?

2.    What is my favorite church building? Why is that the case?

 Dear Parishioners,

           The Diocese is studying the health of all its parishes. They have hired Catholic Leadership Institute to lead this study. In the past few months there have been zoom calls with priests, deacons and lay leaders who have talked about the broad issues touching our parishes. There has also been statistical analysis of various aspects of parish life.

          A couple weeks ago the priests had a day long meeting in Peoria to get input. The priests were asked if they wanted to serve multiple parishes, wanted to live in groups and other questions about ministry in the future.

          The next step is to talk to lay leaders in the various parishes. These meetings will take place via zoom call in December. By next spring, models will be offered by CDL that will be possibilities for parish reorganization. The hope is that the diocese will be stronger if we consolidate resources.

          We should all pray that the Spirit will lead us toward a more vibrant church.

          May Our Lady pray for us as we elect new leadership in our country.

          Fr. Mark