Church organs resurrected at Notre-Dame and St. John the Divine after fire disaster
- Five years ago, fires damaged two significant cathedrals: Notre-Dame and St. John the Divine.
- The restoration of the organs was delayed due to insurance negotiations and extensive repair efforts.
- Both organs are now restored and will resume their roles in community services and celebrations.
On Palm Sunday five years ago, catastrophic fires broke out at two of the most significant cathedrals in the world, Notre-Dame in Paris, France, and St. John the Divine in New York, USA. These fires struck during a critical moment in the church calendar and led to extensive damage, particularly to the cherished pipe organs within both sacred spaces. Restoration efforts began shortly thereafter but encountered numerous delays due to the complexities involved in insurance settlements and the restoration process itself. The organ at St. John the Divine, completed in 1911, is hailed as one of the finest examples of American organ-building. It features more than 8,000 pipes, and the original builder, Ernest M. Skinner, is recognized as a prominent figure in 20th-century organ construction. After the fire, a significant undertaking was required to restore this majestic instrument, which involved disassembling all of its pipes and transporting them to Missouri for restoration. Such meticulous restoration processes underscore not just the importance of the instruments but also the historical and cultural significance of these organs in their respective communities. As of today, both organs have been successfully restored and brought back to life. For instance, the organ at St. John the Divine participated in a recent Sunday service and is set to perform during the cathedral's annual holiday concert titled 'The Joy of Christmas: Gloria in Excelsis.' This event will showcase traditional carols and works from notable composers, highlighting the renewed musical presence of the organ and its role in festive celebrations. The restoration of these organs symbolizes the resilience of cultural and religious institutions following tragic events. The efforts made to restore such historic instruments are a testament to the community's commitment to preserving their musical heritage while also providing a sense of hope and continuity amid adversity. This revival reaffirms the integral role such organs play not only in worship but also in the wider context of community gatherings and cultural events.