St. John Cantius Parish

Station - St. John Lateran

Details:

Apr. 18, 2:00 am

SATURDAY IN EASTER WEEK
STATION – ST. JOHN LATERAN

In the Lateran Basilica, “head and mother of all the churches of the city and the world,” we began the Paschal solemnities; in this basilica we also conclude them. Today our Most Holy Savior gathers us together for a farewell celebration, desirous to write on our hearts the high dignity that is ours, but also the tremendous responsibility we have as branches in vital union with Christ, the Vine.

The design above illustrates the thoughts for today’s meditation. Upon the tomb are the linens, signs of Christ’s resurrection; they also remind us of the baptism robes put aside today by the neophytes, signs of their spiritual resurrection. Participants in the solemn celebration are Peter, Paul, John the Baptist (Stational church) and John the Evangelist; the two Johns carry a baptismal robe and a lamp. The Lamb with palm and milk pitcher represents the holy Eucharist, means by which the neophytes “put on Christ.” The lamb stands on the Cornerstone referred to in Sacred Scripture.

Through the mouth of St. Peter, whom Christ appointed shepherd and watchman over His flock he tells us:

Remember your Christian dignity, that you are living stones, set on the Supreme Cornerstone, Christ. Remember that you are a chosen generation, the adopted sons and daughters of God. Remember your royal priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices daily. Remember that you were purchased with the Lord’s most precious Blood.

St. Peter also reminds us of our responsibilities as followers of Christ. As living stones you must never, depart from the Chief Cornerstone. As a chosen generation you must by a truly Christian life declare the virtues of your God. As a royal priesthood you must make the Eucharistic Sacrifice the center and source of your words and deeds. Finally, as a purchased people you must keep away from the works of darkness and walk in Christ’s marvelous Easter light.

Grant us, we beseech Thee, O Lord, ever to rejoice in these Paschal mysteries, that the continued work of our redemption may be to us a source of perpetual joy. Amen.

And so today we conclude our Paschal Pilgrimage, our dying and rising with Christ. May these meditations restore you to full vigor in the Risen Christ and may these Fifty Days of Paschal Glory fill you with joy.