Notre-Dame de Paris has celebrated its first Christmas Masses since the devastating fire of 2019, igniting feelings of hope and joy among worshippers returning to the iconic cathedral.
On Tuesday, faithful from various places gathered at Notre-Dame to partake in the traditional Nativity Masses. "It feels so magical and special," said Daniel James, 46, from Seattle, highlighting the sentiment shared by many attending the service for the first time since the cathedral's closure.
The cathedral, which has stood for over 860 years, was inundated with visitors eager to experience the holiday services once again amid its storied and beautifully restored Gothic arches. According to Valentin Lacroix, who oversaw entry control, the line was continuous since early morning as people patiently waited for the evening services.
Hundreds stood outside, many coming from different regions and even overseas. Marie-Christine Bascourret, dressed head-to-toe in red, expressed her delight after attending the 4 PM Mass. "It was magnificent. I decided to come around 2 PM and waited for about one hour. That brought me heart," she shared.
Daniel James, returning after many years, remarked on the significance of this moment. “It’s special to return here; I was coming for ten consecutive years before the fire.” He emphasized the feeling of joy and hope, saying, "It's such a unique experience. I’m so happy to be back here today."
Since the fire on April 15, 2019, which ravaged the historic site, this Christmas marks the first celebration of the Nativity masses, commemorated for Christians as the birth of Jesus. The diocese of Paris communicated the lack of reservations for the Christmas Masses, encouraging attendees to arrive early due to limited access contingent upon availability. Visitors were advised to arrive at least thirty minutes beforehand, with caution about potential long lines.
Matthieu de Coene, 28, was pleasantly surprised by the efficiency of entry, saying, "We had little hope of getting inside, but it turned out quite smooth for no reservation system!" He noted the reopening had motivated him to attend.
Florence Kergorrou, who identifies as Parisian, was thrilled to see the line moving quickly. With laughter, she expressed her excitement about enjoying the Mass and visiting the monument simultaneously, stating, "We’re getting two birds with one stone!"
After the musical vigil at 11 PM, the traditional Midnight Mass was celebrated by Paris Archbishop Laurent Ulrich. Valentine Guilleux, 21, from Loire-Atlantique, eagerly awaited entry. "We’ve been queuing for just under an hour, but it’s worth it! It’s possibly the only chance I’ll attend Midnight Mass at Notre-Dame. We visited here long ago, and I expect something special and unique,” she said.
Reflecting on the event, Archbishop Ulrich sent out a heartfelt message on Christmas. "Here we are back at Notre-Dame, just restored for worship and visitation. Our hearts are jubilant!" He also paid tribute to the efforts put forth during restoration, emphasizing the joy of reunion, stating, "The pain from the fire and five years of absence have faded to leave only the joy of being together once more, this common house, the house of God."
On Christmas Day, Archbishop Ulrich will preside over the 11 AM Mass, which will also be broadcast on France 2. He is scheduled to lead two additional services at 8:30 AM and 6 PM. Access to the cathedral is still subject to a strict limit of 2,700 attendees, reflecting the significant interest to visit the revered structure celebrated not only by locals but also referenced by influential figures like Victor Hugo throughout literature and film.
The reopening of Notre-Dame on December 7, preceded by extensive renovations, drew attendance from marked positions including U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky. This Christmas also signifies the beginning of the Jubilee, the 'Holy Year' for the Catholic Church set to launch with the Pope's message from the Vatican.
