Notre-Dame Cathedral Holds First Mass Since Fire

Two-months-ago, the Notre-Dame Cathedral suffered from extensive fire damage. For the first time since the tragic occurrence, the Cathedral will open its doors and celebrate its first Mass.

French President hopes rebuild will be complete by 2024.

Highlights

By Abigail James (NEWS CONSORTIUM)
Catholic Online (https://www.catholic.org)
6/12/2019 (5 years ago)

Published in Living Faith

Keywords: Notre Dame, Cathedral, Notre Dame Fire, Mass, Summer Olympics

LOS ANGELES, CA (Catholic Online) - According to Mgr Patrick Chauvet, the cathedral's rector, they will be celebrating the anniversary of its dedication, the consecration of the altar.

"It is very important to be able to make the world aware that the role of the cathedral is to show the glory of God," Chauvet told La Croix International, according to the Catholic Herald. "Celebrating the Eucharist on that day, even in very small groups, will be the sign of this glory and grace."

The Mass will be held in the smaller side chapel that was not damaged by the fire.

Although only 20 people are allowed to participate in the Mass and they are required to wear hardhats, the Mass will be broadcast live on French television, according to the Archdiocese of Paris.

Until the cathedral officially reopens, some officials hope to build a small Marian shirne in the front square where people can come to pray and hold evening services. However, French authorities have not yet granted permission to publicly reopen the square.

"As General Jean-Louis Georgelin said: the objective is to get back into the cathedral as soon as possible so that worship can be celebrated again, because that is what a cathedral is all about," said Chauvet, according to the Catholic Herald. 

French President Emmanuel Macron wants the reconstruction completed in five years, with the 2024 Summer Olympics in mind. 

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