The iconic Notre Dame Cathedral, a beacon of religious history and culture in Paris, recently witnessed a momentous event in its ongoing restoration.
On December 16, a new golden rooster, reimagined as a phoenix, was carefully placed atop the cathedral’s spire, meant to symbolize hope and renewal after the devastating fire in April of 2019.
The original rooster, a cherished emblem of France and a symbol of Christianity, was remarkably recovered from the ashes of the blaze. Although battered, its survival was seen as a glimmer of hope amidst the catastrophe. The new rooster, designed by chief architect Philippe Villeneuve, is not just an ordinary weathervane but a testament to resilience. “It is a fire of resurrection,” Villeneuve said to AP, emphasizing its significance.
The installation of the rooster was more than a restoration step; it was a ceremonious event. Paris Archbishop Laurent Ulrich blessed the rooster, which contains sacred relics, including fragments of Christ’s Crown of Thorns and remains of St. Denis and St. Genevieve. “These relics are the sign that we are an incarnate religion,” said Monsignor Ribadeau-Dumas, rector of the cathedral, to Aleteia.
Moreover, the rooster holds a list of nearly 2,000 individuals who contributed to Notre Dame’s reconstruction, symbolizing the collective effort and dedication behind this monumental task.
The restoration of Notre Dame, including the reinstallation of its spire and the golden rooster, is a testament to France’s commitment to its heritage. Emmanuel Macron, French President, underscored this during a recent visit, stating that deadlines for the cathedral’s reopening, set for December 8, 2024, will be met.
As Notre Dame prepares to welcome visitors and worshippers once again, its new golden rooster stands proudly, a beacon of hope and a reminder of the cathedral’s resilience and the unwavering faith of the people behind its revival!
Photo credit: Siren-Com via Wikimedia Commons
