Having traveled throughout the world and spent time worshipping, visiting and studying some of the most magnificent Roman Catholic churches, I felt great sorrow witnessing alongside the rest of the world the fire raging at Notre Dame Cathedral. I joined millions of Catholics praying for our loss as a Church, along with the community of believers and the people of Paris and throughout France who were also praying for the safety of the emergency responders and the recovery of relics, other sacred artifacts and important artwork.
Quite poetically, the Seine River runs below, the water signifying life in which this magnificent edifice rises above. Craftsmen and artisans exemplified their faith reaching for the skies paying respect and love to God our Savior through the God given gifts of physical strength, ingenuity and patience designing and constructing this breathtaking cathedral. The flying buttresses extending like limbs stretching into the community, lovingly embracing it through tears. As the fire raged on, the highest point succumbed to flames, collapsing, yet its foundation and towers still stand strong and its stones figuratively acting like flesh, its open wounds seeking prayers, forgiveness, peace and love.
As the smoke rose and ashes landed, Notre Dame Cathedral continues to serve as a symbol of our faith along the Paris skyline and even more poignantly during the start of Holy Week. Let us not forget that this cathedral rises from ruins of two previous churches; just like Jesus’ Resurrection, Notre Dame Cathedral will rise again.
In tragedy it is amazing how our Lord is still speaking to us. Let us continue to pray for the recovery, faith and protection from fire, vandalism and desecration of our churches throughout the world.