Diocesan News
Statement of the Archbishop of Dublin on the devastating fire at Notre Dame Cathedral
People in the United Dioceses of Dublin and Glendalough were devastated to witness the fire that ripped through the upper stories of Notre Dame de Paris and that was visible to the whole world with flames and smoke billowing into the skyline.
The medieval cathedral is synonymous with Paris and beloved of Parisians. It attracts millions of tourists and pilgrims annually and inspires them through its graceful architectural lines and its countless works of art that are built into its spiritual fabric. The aesthetic and the spiritual combine in ways that enable the human soul to transcend the everyday and to sense something of the presence and power of God.
Our thoughts and prayers are with all associated with the daily life of the cathedral as they will have been in the early stages of Holy Week liturgy and worship. While the cathedral’s destruction looks to all like desolation, we hope that a full restoration will be possible. Notre Dame has withstood many vicissitudes throughout its history. We are confident it has the energy to rise again.
For further information please contact:
Diocesan Communications Officer, Dublin & Glendalough
087 235 6472
Mrs Lynn Glanville
dcodublin@gmail.com