Quite a few photographs have emerged in the wake of the Notre Dame fire which show the extent of the destruction, but also the real capacity for rebuilding. There is much to be said for renewing or repairing historic structures, particularly where that structure has a purpose beyond the material, where is has become a part of the living fabric of the city. The Cathedral of Notre Dame is one such building, its 850 year history surviving war, plague, revolution and foreign occupation. Most great cities can boast at least one such structure, some can boast more. Here I am thinking of Kyoto.

A couple of photos in particular are worthy of mention. Both show the burnt-out interior of the cathedral, all wooden structures fallen, blackened or charred, the stone pillars and walls remaining stoically upright. At the high altar end, the gold cross illuminates the darkness. Below the cross, a pieta remains undisturbed. For many, including myself, this is a deep moment for spiritual reflection, for finding hope where once there there were only tears.




"A serious house on serious earth it is,
In whose blent air all our compulsions meet,
Are recognized, and robed as destinies." (PL)