By Solène Tadié
CNA Newsroom, Dec 7, 2024 / 20:15 pm
The doors of the newly restored Notre-Dame of Paris Cathedral were officially reopened to the public during a ceremony Saturday evening just over five years after a blaze ravaged the iconic structure’s roof, frame, and spire.
The celebration, which began at around 7:20 p.m. local time, was attended by some 1,500 people, including around 40 heads of state, including U.S. President-elect Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Cardinal Timothy Dolan of New York and Maronite Patriarch Bechara al-Rai of Antioch were among the 170 bishops from France and around the world who attended the ceremony, which featured a message from Pope Francis, who did not travel for the occasion.
Authorities mobilized a massive security force of some 6,000 police and gendarmes for the event, citing a “very high level of terrorist threat.” Space was provided for up to 40,000 people outside the cathedral.
Step into the magical world of Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris as it reopens its doors after a long period of silence and darkness. The grand ceremony was graced by French President Emmanuel Macron, who, despite initial plans to speak outside the cathedral, ended up delivering his address inside due to unfavorable weather conditions. The event was a testament to the resilience and spirit of the French nation, as Macron expressed gratitude to the rebuilders of Notre Dame for their dedication and hard work.
The bell of Notre-Dame, known as the bourdon, broke its five-year silence, ringing out across Paris as a symbolic gesture of hope and renewal. The Archbishop of Paris, Laurent Ulrich, marked the reopening by knocking on the cathedral’s central portal, leading to the harmonious sounds of the polyphonic piece Totus Tuss, sung by the talented members of the Maîtrise de Notre Dame.
Pope Francis sent his blessings through a heartfelt letter read by Monsignor Celestino Migliore, praising the efforts of the firefighters who saved the cathedral from the devastating flames. The Pope’s message resonated with the crowd, urging all believers to take pride in their faith heritage and embrace the spirit of renewal.
The ceremony continued with the awakening and blessing of the historic organ, a magnificent instrument that had endured the ravages of the 2019 fire. As Archbishop Ulrich took possession of the cathedral, he welcomed people from all walks of life, emphasizing that the Church is open to everyone, regardless of their background or beliefs.
The atmosphere was filled with joy and celebration as the choir sang hymns and prayers, culminating in a final blessing and the melodious strains of the Te Deum. The reopening of Notre-Dame was a momentous occasion, symbolizing a new chapter in the cathedral’s storied history.
