The Lateran Basilica (dating 12th Century)
The Arch Basilica of St. John Lateran Basilica is the oldest and highest ranking of the four major Basilicas in Rome. The Basilica of St. John Lateran is the Cathedral of the diocese of Rome, the official ecclesiastical seat of the Holy Father, the Bishop of Rome. The Basilica is also called the church of the Saviour. In ancient Rome this was the church where everyone was baptized. It was built during the time of Constantine and was consecrated by Pope Sylvester in 324. At first the feast was celebrated only in the city of Rome but then, in honour of the Basilica which is of the city and the world, it was extended to the whole of the Roman Rite as a sign of unity and respect towards the Holy See, which as St. Ignatius of Antioch wrote, presides over the whole assembly of Charity.

Hymn of the Dedication of the Church
When time began, God walked with man
With Adam in the evening light;
And when his people bore the ark
Through trackless dessert, day and night,
God led them with a cloud by day;
At night, with fire lit up their way.

The Lord dwelt in Jerusalem,
Enthroned above the Cherubim
And there the tribes of Israel
Went up to praise and worship him
Whose Land had made them strong to build
The temple that his glory filled

The body of the Risen Christ
Is Gods new dwelling place sublime?
And man’s eternal temple here
Secure against eroding time.
Built up of stones that live, it stands,
God’s holy house, not made with hands.

The loving father bless and praise
And Christ His uncreated Son
Who with the Holy Spirit Reigns?
In peace and love, forever one