The spiritual heart of Paris awakens: Notre Dame hosts first Mass since 2019 fire [View all]
Source: AP
By THOMAS ADAMSON and SYLVIE CORBET
Updated 5:26 PM CST, December 8, 2024
PARIS (AP) Notre Dame Cathedral, its air thick with the smell of incense, hosted its first Mass on Sunday since the catastrophic fire of 2019, a moment that transcended religious significance to become a powerful symbol of Paris resilience.
Beneath the glow of traditional chandeliers and modern spotlights, which illuminated its intricately carved stonework, the cathedral emerged reborn, its grandeur restored after five years of reconstruction.
For Catholics, it marks the revival of the citys spiritual heart, a place where faith has been nurtured for centuries. For the world, it signals the rebirth of one of global heritages most famous landmarks.
The event was both solemn and historic. Archbishop Laurent Ulrich presided over the morning Mass, including the consecration of a new bronze altar.
Read more: https://apnews.com/article/notre-dame-1st-mass-fire-restoration-273a44fbce8465561e558e1029457eda