It was with great emotion that we were invited, after 68 months of waiting, to the grandiose ceremony marking the reopening of Notre-Dame Cathedral on December 07, 2024.
We know that over a billion people were connected to this national and universal, liturgical and religious ceremony. Notre-Dame had moved the world in 2019 as she was plunged into darkness by this fire that could not forgive. But a prophetic word emerged that very evening: “We will rebuild Notre-Dame in 5 years”..
It’s true that, at the time, we were somewhat sceptical. But today’s ceremony demonstrates the human capacity to unite forces for a common cause. Today, we can say that the “resurrection” of Notre-Dame is nothing short of a miracle, thanks to the collective will, the meticulousness of those involved in the various skills and the harmonization of the various trades with its 2,000 craftsmen and workers. Notre-Dame was for 8 centuries, is today and will remain tomorrow, emblematic!
We share with you this magnificent song from the ceremony as the 113 parishes of Paris returned in procession with their banners, signifying that they were taking back possession of their cathedral with their archbishop in the lead. Through them, the world found her, with a single heart.
This song expresses joy and, above all, God’s joy.
Today is a feast day
Great joy in God’s heart
Let us go forth rejoicing
Acclaim the King of Heaven
1 – All the saints and angels
Give glory to the almighty:
Their music, their praises
Carry our songs to him.
2 – The universe exults and dances
For the glory of the Most High,
When it sees the immense crowd,
Near the throne of the Lamb
3 – All Peoples on earth
Are led by its light.
It is the power of Calvary
That leads them into Peace.
4 – The living waters of baptism
Have washed all sinners clean.
It’s God’s own blood
That saves them in their heart of hearts.
You can listen to this song at [1:04:50]: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oV4yfmrkV8c
P. François Lapointe omv, shrine rector
