Are you aware that God’s Spirit resides in you?

Today, we celebrate the Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica in
Rome, a special occasion that connects us to our faith and the universal Church.
The Lateran Basilica was built around 324 AD by Emperor Constantine. As the
cathedral of Rome, it has been the official residence of the Pope since the fourth
century, symbolizing unity and the rich history of Christ’s teachings. The Lateran
Basilica, often called the “Mother of all churches,” shines brightly as a beacon of
faith and unity. On Holy Thursday, it is the place where the Pope and priests
gather to celebrate the Eucharist, emphasizing that the Church is not just a
building but a living body of believers. This body is connected through Christ,
who, as St. Paul reminds us in the second reading, “Do you not know that you
are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwells in you?” We are filled
with the Spirit, each of us playing a special role in the sacred life we share.

This feast reminds us that being part of the Church connects us to a great
mission. Since we are all called to serve in different ways, let us pause and
consider how each of us is fulfilling our unique purpose within the Church. With
National Vocation Awareness Week happening, it’s a good time to reflect on how
important it is to listen to God’s call. Whether someone feels called to the
priesthood, diaconate, religious life, the beautiful path of married life, or to single
life, each vocation is a special gift designed to lead us toward holiness and
heartfelt service.

The Church tells us that each vocation adds a special touch to the parish
community and helps serve the greater good. Pope Leo XIV’s reminder that
“young people need adequate spaces in which to hear God’s voice” resonates
across all generations. Let’s dedicate ourselves to creating and nurturing these
essential spaces, so we and others can listen for and respond to God’s call. By
opening our hearts and minds to the many possibilities of our vocation, we
discover that holiness can be found in every part of our lives, turning each day
into an opportunity for growth.

Dear brothers and sisters, let us remain open and attentive to God’s voice.
As we honor the Lateran Basilica, may it inspire us to build not only physical
spaces dedicated to worship but also spiritual spaces within ourselves and our
communities where connection and discernment can thrive. Embrace your role
as a living temple. Rejoice in your vocation and encourage others to seek their
divine calling. Together, in our unique ways, we create a vibrant Church, working
hand in hand to fulfill God’s purpose in our world today.

Rev. Dominic Toan Tran, Pastor