Each year on November 9th, the Church celebrates the Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica, the oldest and highest-ranking of the four major basilicas in Rome. Though it may seem unusual to honor a building, this feast reminds us that sacred spaces are more than stone and architecture—they are places where the People of God gather, worship, and encounter the living presence of Christ.

The Lateran Basilica is the cathedral of the Bishop of Rome, the Pope, and is considered the “Mother Church” of all churches in the world. Its dedication is a celebration of the unity and universality of the Church, built on the foundation of Christ and the apostles.

The Gospel reading for this feast, John 2:13–22, recounts the dramatic moment when Jesus cleanses the temple in Jerusalem. He drives out the money changers and merchants, declaring, “Take these things away; do not make my Father’s house a house of trade!” This powerful act reveals Jesus’ zeal for true worship and His desire for the temple to be a place of prayer, not profit.

But Jesus goes further—He speaks of the temple of His body, foretelling His death and resurrection. In doing so, He shifts our understanding: the true temple is not merely a building, but the living presence of God among us. Through baptism, we, too, become temples of the Holy Spirit, called to holiness and communion.

This week, we also celebrate two great saints who bore witness to this living hope: St. Leo the Great, whose teachings defended the truth of Christ’s divinity and humanity, and St. Frances Xavier Cabrini, the first U.S. citizen to be canonized.

In gratitude for the many hands and hearts that serve our parish, we joyfully invite all volunteers to a Volunteer Appreciation Party and Reception on Saturday, November 15th, following the 5 PM Mass in the parish hall. You are the heartbeat of our community—special, generous, and deeply appreciated. This celebration is a small way to say thank you for your dedication and love.

This coming Sunday the 16th, we joyfully celebrate a special milestone in our parish community—our Church Anniversary! After the 8 AM Mass, we warmly invite all parishioners, families, and friends to join us in the parish hall for a festive breakfast reception.

This is more than just a meal—it’s a moment to give thanks for the blessings we’ve received as a faith family, to honor the journey we’ve shared, and to look forward with hope and unity. Whether you’ve been with us from the beginning or are newly part of our parish, your presence makes our celebration complete. Come and take part in the joy, fellowship, and gratitude as we mark another year of growing together in faith, love, and service. We can’t wait to celebrate with you!

Love and Prayers,

Fr. Charley