The bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh responded to Monday’s fire at the historic Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris.
Bishop David Zubik said his heart was “deeply saddened” as he watched flames tear apart the great monument. He said he has visited the Cathedral twice and celebrated mass there.
“What impressed me, along with the great beauty that was intended to draw our hearts to God, was the faith of the French people who brought that vision to life. May God be with them and comfort them,” Zubik said Monday.
He also said the fact that this fire happened during Holy Week should remind followers that “God restores life from the ashes.”
“As great and beautiful as that structure has been, it stands for something far greater and more beautiful: The love of Jesus for everyone,” he said. “The greatest tribute any Christian can make to Notre Dame is to follow Jesus ever more closely and to reflect his love to everyone.”
