Could the Reopening of the Notre Dame Cathedral Signal a New Beginning?

(Minghui.org) Could recent events like the U.S. election and the restoration of the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris be the first signs of the world returning to tradition and turning back to the divine?

At the cathedral’s reopening ceremony on December 7, 2024, French president Emmanuel Macron not only thanked those who saved, donated to, and rebuilt the cathedral but also spoke positively of King Louis XIV (1638-1715). The monarch not only made France the center of political, military, and artistic influence but also renovated the Notre Dame Cathedral during his reign. This masterpiece of Gothic architecture became a focal point for people around the globe who cherish history, culture, and tradition. President Macron’s speech stood in contrast to the increased vilification of Louis XIV seen in recent years.

According to a report by France 24, Macron’s speech was originally scheduled outdoors to avoid disturbing the first mass after the reopening. Because of rain, the speech was moved indoors and the music for the mass was prerecorded the day before. These two changes made the mass the highlight of the ceremony.

Taking a closer look, one would find this mass different from those in the past. First was the setting, as donations from the French, Americans, and others allowed the cathedral to be renewed after the fire damage in 2019. In addition to cleaning the inside and outside of the cathedral, workers restored important components, from stained glass windows and paintings to sculptures and pipe organs, drawing admiration and happiness.

Second were the clergy wearing bright, eye-catching vestments with red, yellow, blue, and green, unlike the dark and reserved colors that were used for many years. The new colors are more traditional and match those of the stained glass in the cathedral, and they are reminiscent of paintings by Renaissance masters.

Third, attendees of the inaugural mass included French President Macron, U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, and other world leaders, who hailed from countries with different belief systems but prayed together to the divine. In this way, mankind’s reverence for the divine has surpassed the worship of the superficial forms and institutions of organized religion. This is a good sign of a new beginning and a blessing from the divine.

Looking back in history, when spiritual leaders introduced their teachings, they only emphasized moral values and mankind’s tie to the Creator but did not establish organized religions. This was the case with Jesus, Moses, Shakyamuni, and Laozi. My understanding is that the path to being saved requires following the teachings of the divine, repenting for and correcting one’s wrongdoings, and not repeating the same mistakes. This is true regardless of one’s social status, race, culture, and belief system.

As Falun Dafa practitioners who follow the principles of Truthfulness-Compassion-Forbearance, we cultivate ourselves in society and should stay true to our belief regardless of changing circumstances. We also need to be considerate, empathetic, and caring to help people find salvation.

These are only my personal observations and thoughts.