Hey there,
Today, November 9th, the Catholic Church celebrates the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica. And then on November 18th we celebrate the Dedication of the Basilicas of Saints Peter and Paul, Apostles.
So this got me wondering. What’s the difference between a Basilica and a Cathedral?
And for that matter, a Shrine?
I’ve visited a few Cathedrals and Basilicas before, but I must admit I don’t know what made them a Cathedral or a Basilica.
So with the coming feast days, I thought you might enjoy visiting this topic as well.
This week’s issue of Genuflect is dedicated to churches. We look at the differences between Cathedrals, Basilicas, Shrines, and Chapels, Basilicas privileges, the Basilicas and Shrines located in the United States, the largest church in the world and some of the most beautiful churches in the world, and what to do when you visit a Shrine.
And we also turn some attention to the Saint John Lateran Basilica … our “mother church.”
Keep Believing-
Katy Barrilleaux
Founding Editor, Genuflect
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genuflect: resources
Cathedrals, Basilicas, And Shrines
A church is a church, right? But why are some called Cathedrals, others called Basilicas, and some called both? And what makes a Shrine? Thomas Craughwell lays it all out here clearly in this quick read.
Cathedrals, Basilicas, And Shrines | Catholic Education Resource Center
Basilica Privileges
Basilicas are designated by the Pope because they carry special significance. Here are 4 special privileges that Basilicas enjoy.
About Basilicas | Catholic Basilicas
St. John Lateran Basilica
St. Peter’s Basilica is always a must see when visiting Rome. But St. John Lateran Basilica is actually the Cathedral seat of the Pope as the Bishop of Rome. We celebrate the dedication of this Basilica each year on November 9th. Find out why here.
St. John Lateran Basilica | Simply Catholic
Basilicas in the US
If you’re curious if there are any Basilicas near you or near where you’re travelling, take a look at this handy page. It lists all the Basilicas in the United States by state.
Catholic.Basilicas, Cathedrals and Shrines | Catholic Shrines and Holy Places
Shrines in the US
Check out this list of prominent Shrines in the US. You may see some here you’ll want to visit.
The Ultimate List of The Catholic Shrines in The USA | The Mystical Humanity of Christ
Largest Church in The World
If you said the largest Catholic Church in the world is St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, you’d be wrong. Surprisingly, it’s in Africa! Check out the stats and photos of this impressive Basilica.
This Little-Known African Basilica is The Largest Church in The World | ChurchPOP
14 Most Beautiful Churches
Enjoy this video of 14 of the most beautiful Churches and Cathedrals around the world, including a look at the recently destroyed Notre Dame Cathedral. How many of these have you visited?
14 of The Most Beautiful Catholic Churches in The World | Catholic Link
What to do When You Visit a Shrine
When you plan travel, why not look for a Catholic site nearby? You may be surprised to find the number of options available to visit. Here are 6 tips to make the most out of your visit to a shrine.
What to do When You Visit a Shrine | Aleteia
The Basilica of The Holy Stairs
I’ve included the Scala Santa (Holy Stairs) here because I find them fascinating. I was blessed to visit them a few years ago with my daughter and we slowly climbed them on our knees in prayer. If you’re not familiar with them, learn more here and add them to your bucket list.
Rome: The Sanctuary of the Holy Stairs (Scala Santa) | The Catholic Travel Guide
genuflect: prayer
Pray The Saint Gertrude the Great Novena
We celebrate the Feast of Saint Gertrude every year on November 16th. Begin the Novena now to complete it in time for the feast day. But you can pray the Novena anytime throughout the year. You’ll find the full instructions for The Saint Gertrude the Great Novena here.
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Digital Inspiration
Click below to download this week’s free inspirational wallpaper for your desktop and your phone. Or download one of the previous wallpapers
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