The Dedication of the Lateran Basilica.

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