In a letter of compassion sent to the President of France Emmanuel Macron following the fire that broke out at Notre Dame Cathedral, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew said that ‘it is not just a Cathedral, but it represents a visible meeting point of Christian faith and human genius, a symbol of the common ideals of humanity, a voice from which comes a resounding appeal for peace and love.’
Patriarch Bartholomew expressed his deep regret for the devastating fire that affected the historic Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, one of the most important landmarks of the historic and spiritual identity of the capital of France.
His Holiness expressed his compassion for the Roman-Catholic faithful in Paris and France.
“The world is deeply hurt today, going through a particular mourning, beyond confessional and religious denominations,” the Ecumenical Patriarch said, being hopeful that the historic cathedral will be restored as soon as possible.
A catastrophic fire engulfed Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris on Monday, altering the city’s skyline and threatening a potent symbol of Christianity at the start of Holy Week as observed by Roman-Catholics.
The fire burned for several hours, destroying the 850-year-old cathedral’s iconic spire and roof before firefighters contained the blaze early Tuesday morning.
The Romanian Patriarchate and several Romanian Orthodox bishops expressed their solidarity with the French people.
Photography courtesy of ekathimerini
