Tuesday, April 16, 2019

Condolences to Paris

Yesterday afternoon, the world watched in disbelief and shock as fire ravaged the famed Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris.  This morning, the Vatican Press Centre has published the text of a Message which the Holy Father, Pope Francis has sent to the Archbishop of Paris, His Excellency, Michel Aupetit.


Message of the Holy Father, Pope Francis

His Excellency, Michel Aupetit
Archbishop of Paris

Following the fire that ravaged a large part of the Notre-Dame Cathedral, I am united with you in your sadness, as well as that of the faithful of your diocese, the inhabitants of Paris and of all French people.  During these days of Holy Week, when we remember the passion of Jesus, his death and his resurrection, I assure you of my spiritual closeness and my prayer.

This catastrophe has seriously damaged a historic building.  But I know that it has alsoaffected a national symbol that is dear to the heart of all Parisians and all French people regardless of their convictions.  For Notre-Dame is the architectural jewel of a collective memory, the gathering place for many major events, the witness of the faith and the prayer of Catholics in the heart of the city.

Recognizing the courage and the work of firefighters who intervened to fight the fire, I express my wish that the Notre-Dame Cathedral can once again enjoy its place as a sign of faith in the heart of the city thanks to reconstruction and the commitment of all people, the mother church of your diocese, part of the spiritual and architectural heritage of Paris, France and of all humanity.

With this hope, I willingly grant the Apostolic blessing to you and to the Bishops of France, as well as to the faithful of your diocese, and I invoke the blessing of God on all the citizens of Paris and on all people of France.

Francis
Texte originel en français
Texto en español

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