Yesterday, flames destroyed the roof and spire of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, France. This modern-day tourist attraction and centuries old holy site was ablaze for hours. As news organizations broadcast the sight of the huge engulfing flames around the world, what started the blaze was a mystery. People assembled nearby were heard saying prayers and singing hymns and folk songs. I couldn’t imagine the loss the residents of Paris felt as they watched the flames rise. Nor could I imagine how they and millions of people around the world who revere Notre Dame  Cathedral as a holy site felt as they watched, helpless to stop its destruction, especially during what many believe to be a holy week.

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