Sunday’s Mass at Notre Dame Cathedral marked the consecration of the new altar, a five-step process that included placing relics of five saints within the altar. Archbishop Laurent Ulrich blessed the altar, which included relics of three women and two men who were significant in the history of the Church in Paris. The ceremony also involved a prayer of dedication, anointing with oil, offering of incense, and adorning and illuminating the altar.
The reopening ceremonies at Notre Dame marked the beginning of a week of celebrations, with many involved in the cathedral’s restoration expected to attend services throughout the week. Paris Center Mayor Ariel Weil described the weekend’s events as a major success, emphasizing that Notre Dame is not only a religious place but also open to everyone, both religious and nonreligious. He stressed the cathedral’s inclusive nature, serving as a symbol for both secular and religious individuals.
The ceremonies were met with positive reception, as the scent of incense filled the cathedral and attendees reflected on the significance of the consecration of the new altar. The events marked a symbolic reawakening of Notre Dame after the devastating fire in 2019, with the community coming together to celebrate the cathedral’s restoration and rejuvenation.
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