LiturgyTools.net: Hymns for the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica

A selection of hymns and songs, based on themes from the Roman Catholic lectionary for the feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica (9 November) - and the general themes associated with the dedication of a church.

Most are free-to-use (ie public domain or copyright-free) meaning the words can be copied and sung to at least one tune with no concerns about copyright or performance licensing. Many such hymns are old/traditional - but where possible a variety of styles / genres are included. A small selection of hymns which are still copyright, but are a particularly good fit for the day's readings, are also included.

Suggestions about other hymns that could be included are welcome: leave a message in the Comments box near the bottom of the page.

Seasonal Note

The Lateran Basilica, is also known as the Basilica of St. John Lateran, the Church of Holy Saviour and the Church of St. John Baptist.

It is the cathedral of Rome, ie the Pope's cathedral, and is where Christians were baptised in ancient Rome. This feast is a celebration in honour of the church which is "the mother and mistress of all churches of Rome and the world" and is a sign of love for, and union with, the See of Peter. It is on the site of the “mother church”, which was a large hall on the Lateran Hill that the Emperor Constantine donated to the church and dedicated under the title “Church of Our Saviour.” Later, this was replaced with a church dedicated to St. John the Baptist, and commonly known as St. John Lateran.

In 2025, this feast is celebrated on Sunday 9 November 2025. It replaces the Ordinary Time observance when this happens.

Readings

First: Ezekiel - The prophet describes the river of water coming from the Temple, growing in size and bringing life wherever it goes.

Psalm 45 - The waters of a river give joy to God's city, the holy place where the Most High dwells / God is for us a refuge and strength / The waters of a river give joy to God's city / The Lord of hosts is with us.

Second: I Paul - The temple of God is sacred, and you are that temple.

Gospel: John 2 - Jesus drives the money lenders and traders our from the Temple - and speaks to the Pharisees drawing the parallel between his crucifixion and rebuilding in three days, and the reconstruction of the temple.