Trump attends reopening of Notre-Dame Cathedral amidst controversy

In Paris, France, Notre Dame Cathedral reopened on December 7, 2024, five years after a catastrophic fire. The historic Gothic cathedral, which is a significant cultural and religious symbol, underwent extensive restoration efforts. Those involved in the reconstruction included over 2,000 artisans and donors from approximately 150 countries, raising nearly 846 million euros through contributions. The rebuild featured traditional craftsmanship and the installation of a large grand organ, which had been cleaned and restored after being coated in lead dust during the fire. The reopening ceremony was attended by prominent figures including U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, French President Emmanuel Macron, and other dignitaries and religious leaders. The event included a solemn service led by Archbishop Laurent Ulrich, who knocked on the cathedral's doors with a crozier crafted from the burned beams to symbolize the reopening. The rituals blended elements of sacred tradition with moments of celebration, culminating in music and prayers that filled the space for the first time in years. The restoration project aimed not only to revive the cathedral but also to refresh its cultural significance in the modern context. Macron expressed pride in the project's success as a reflection of France's resilience, while the attendance of international leaders underscored the cathedral's enduring importance as a landmark of shared heritage and global solidarity. As it reopened, local and global visitors were set to reconnect with this cherished monument, which had previously attracted millions annually. In the days following the official reopening, the cathedral was scheduled to host various Masses, acknowledging those who contributed to its restoration, including the priests and firefighters who played a vital role during the tragedy. The people of Paris and the wider Catholic community expressed profound emotional responses to the revival of this cherished symbol, celebrating the return of a space that holds significant historical, spiritual, and architectural importance.