More than Just a Building

This week the media has been filled with the shocking news of the fire at Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, France.  Many have remarked on the timing – the beginning of Holy Week – and how tragic it is that such a disaster should happen now of all times.  Social media, too, has been flooded with people telling their Notre Dame stories, sharing their sadness, and for some, sharing their confusion over why this is a big deal.

It is a big deal.  And it isn’t.  It is a big deal because Notre Dame is a secular cultural landmark as well as a spiritual one in Paris.  It is a big deal because the building has stood for centuries, and for it to be damaged by a mere accident is shocking.  It is a big deal because of how long it will take to rebuild and restore to its former glory.

But this reality of a long period of restoration should give us consolation as well.  In this 21^st-century world, we are so used to getting things done quickly and instant gratification that we forget that our ancestors spent decades, even centuries, erecting the great cathedrals of Europe.  This tragedy gives us a chance to experience what they did:  the fascination and awe of the process of (re)construction of such a building, to the glory of God.

And especially during this Holy Week and coming Easter Season, it gives us a chance to reflect on the fact that the Church of God, with a capital C, is comprised not of a building, but of the people who worship within that building and others.  French Catholics have demonstrated this amazingly this week, gathering to sing, pray, and yes, mourn, together.

I was very lucky to have a chance to go to Notre Dame in 2001, while on a concert tour with the Madeleine Choir School.  In the wake of Monday’s events, I shared this picture on my personal Facebook page:

It has since gathered over 50 likes and has been shared widely, including by the Cathedral of the Madeleine.  This is about as close to “viral” as I get on social media, but it shows the depth of so many people’s emotions regarding this event.

Stay strong, Paris and Notre Dame.  The prayers of an entire Church are with you.