Father Rick’s Gospel Reflection for The Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica in Rome

November 9, 2025, John 2:13-22

https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/110925.cfm

Zeal for Us Consumes Jesus.

A temple is a sacred place where God dwells for His people. Jesus was surprised by how little respect people showed for this dwelling of God. He cleansed the temple of the money changers and those who dishonored God through their actions and customs.

Jesus has the same zeal for us as we are the temples of His Holy Spirit. His heart resides in us, and we must always be aware of His Presence with us. However, we are both physical beings with bodies and spiritual beings with souls. Therefore, following the custom of our Old Testament ancestors, we have physical places to meet with God as a faith community for worship. These temples are called churches.

Our Catholic Church has been the home of Our Lord Jesus in the tabernacles of our churches for 1700 years. Today, we remember the first Church of Rome, St. John Lateran, which was dedicated as the first residence of the Holy Father, the Pope. The Church was not under persecution for the first time in over 300 years. It could finally celebrate Mass and the Sacraments publicly.

Gospel Challenge:
Today, reflect on our behavior before Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament when we enter a church. We genuflect or reverently bow as we enter a pew out of respect for our Lord and Savior in the Tabernacle. We could limit our conversations so others can pray without distractions. May the Lord renew the honor and respect we show Him in the Tabernacle and each other.  

God bless you, my friends. 

Love One Another!

Fr. Rick Pilger, I.C.   
www.bscchurch.com