Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris marked a significant milestone this Christmas season by hosting its first midnight mass since the catastrophic fire of 2019. The iconic monument, which dates back to 1163, had suffered severe damage in the fire, including the destruction of its roof and spire. After a meticulous five-year restoration process, the cathedral was reopened earlier this month, allowing it to once again host the traditional Christmas celebrations.
A Joyous Reunion for Devotees
On Christmas Eve, Bishop Ulrich addressed the congregation, offering heartfelt wishes for “joy in heaven, peace on earth.” He highlighted the dedication and expertise involved in the restoration, which made the return of this sacred space possible. The bishop expressed joy in seeing the community come together once again in the restored cathedral.
Among the attendees was Marie-Christine Bascourret, a retiree who had attended mass at Notre Dame every year before the fire. Describing her return to the cathedral as “magnificent,” she shared her emotional experience of waiting for an hour in line to secure her spot. “It gave me heart,” Bascourret said, reflecting the emotional significance of the occasion.
An Emotional Return for Regular Visitors
Daniel James, a 46-year-old American from Seattle, also made a special trip to Notre Dame for the first time since the fire. Having attended mass at the cathedral for ten years prior to the blaze, James expressed his joy and hope upon returning. “I’m so happy to come back, it’s so magical and special, it’s a feeling of hope, of joy,” he said.
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Beautiful to see the Christmas Midnight Mass at @notredameparis! Thank you @Paris @EmmanuelMacron and everyone who contributed to the incredibly fast renovation! pic.twitter.com/Tt757rbUUt
— clem 🤗 (@ClementDelangue) December 25, 2024
Long Queues and High Demand for Masses
On Christmas Day, long queues began to form early as visitors flocked to the cathedral to experience the Christmas masses. Valentin Lacroix, who managed entry, noted that by 3 pm, over a hundred people were waiting outside. The cathedral received visitors from Paris, the provinces, and even abroad, all eager to witness this historic moment.
Due to limited capacity, the Diocese of Paris announced that no reservations were available for Christmas masses. Entry was granted on a first-come, first-served basis, with visitors advised to arrive 30 minutes early to secure their spot. The cathedral’s website cautioned that long waits were expected, and some visitors might not be able to attend the service.
A Symbol of Hope and Resilience
The restoration of Notre Dame Cathedral has come to symbolize hope, resilience, and the strength of the Parisian community. For many, the opportunity to celebrate Christmas in this historic landmark was a moment of deep emotion and gratitude. The return of mass to the cathedral after five years of restoration serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring spirit of both the cathedral and the city of Paris itself.
As the cathedral continues to draw visitors and locals alike, Notre Dame’s legacy remains strong, offering a space for both reflection and celebration for years to come.
