Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica in Rome
Why All the Fuss about Buildings? 

I have to admit, every time we come across a feast day for the dedication of a church, I am tempted to tune out and yawn. I mean what’s all the fuss about buildings? Doesn’t the Bible tell us over and over again not to focus on the external, the material and the riches of this world? Aren’t we supposed to be all about forming hearts and saving souls, about the Church rather than a church?
Well, if the Church has proclaimed this day a feast, then it must have some great significance, so let’s find it. The Archbasilica of St. John Lateran in Rome is the cathedral of the Bishop of Rome. In other words, St. Peter’s in Vatican City is not the Pope’s home church. His cathedra, his bishop’s seat, is found at St. John Lateran. This basilica was built on terrain donated by Emperor Constantine himself and celebrated the freedom of worship granted by the Edict of Milan. Wow. 
Ok, so maybe this isn’t just any old church. Originally this feast was only celebrated in Rome, but in 1726, it was placed on the worldwide calendar. This building holds special significance, reminding Catholics of the courage of the early Christians who fought for freedom of religion and the unity of the universal Church with the Holy See. 
Bringing it a little closer to home, this feast could also be a reminder to us of the respect due our own parish church. Do we see it as a place of honor, reverence and community worship? Do we dress, act and keep silence in an appropriate way, considering we are in the physical presence of Almighty God? Do we offer ourselves together with Christ in the Eucharistic sacrifice, uniting ourselves with Catholics throughout the world? 
May we celebrate our universal Church today and may we thank God for all of the churches that have been built and dedicated to allow us a space to worship freely. Maybe we should make a fuss about these beautiful buildings after all. 
Tami Urcia

Short Version

What’s all the fuss about buildings? Doesn’t the Bible tell us over and over again not to focus on material things but rather on the heart? Aren’t we supposed to focus on the Church rather than a church?
Well, if the Church has proclaimed this day a feast, then it must have some great significance, so let’s find it. The Archbasilica of St. John Lateran in Rome is the cathedral of the Bishop of Rome. His cathedra, his bishop’s seat, is found at St. John Lateran. This basilica was built on terrain donated by Emperor Constantine himself and celebrated the freedom of worship granted by the Edict of Milan. Wow. 
Ok, so maybe this isn’t just any old church. It holds special significance, reminding Catholics of the courage of the early Christians who fought for freedom of religion and the unity of the universal Church with the Holy See. 
This feast can serve as a reminder to us of the respect due our own parish church. Do we see it as a place of honor, reverence and community worship? Do we dress and act appropriately, considering we are in God’s presence? Do we offer ourselves together with Christ in the Eucharistic sacrifice, uniting ourselves with Catholics throughout the world? 
May we celebrate our universal Church today and may we thank God for all of the churches that have been built and dedicated to allow us a space to worship freely. Maybe we should make a fuss about these beautiful buildings after all. 
Tami Urcia