First Mass Celebrated in Restored Notre Dame After Five Years

Notre Dame Cathedral reopened its doors for worship on Saturday, marking a momentous milestone five years after a devastating fire nearly destroyed the iconic Parisian landmark. The inaugural Mass, held within the newly restored cathedral, was a celebration of hope, resilience, and renewal.

Pope Francis sent a heartfelt message of solidarity, gratitude, and joy, describing the occasion as a shift “from sadness and mourning to joy, celebration, and praise.” His message, addressed to Archbishop Laurent Ulrich of Paris, was read aloud by Archbishop Celestino Migliore, the Apostolic Nuncio to France, during the inaugural ceremony. The pope expressed his spiritual closeness to the faithful, uniting with them in prayer as Notre Dame rose anew from its ashes, symbolizing a testament to faith and perseverance.

Indian Church Leaders Demand Safety for Christians

Christian leaders in Assam, a state in northeast India, have raised urgent concerns over escalating violence against their community. In a strongly worded appeal, the Assam Christian Forum, led by Archbishop John Moolachira of Guwahati, condemned what they described as “relentless attacks” on Christians and their institutions over the past year.

“We need protection,” Archbishop Moolachira said during a statement on December 3, urging the state and central governments to take immediate action to ensure the safety of Christians. The forum’s statement reflects growing anxiety within the community as tensions persist under the BJP-led government in Assam.

Pope Francis Urges World Leaders to Broker Christmas Peace

During the Angelus on the solemnity of the Immaculate Conception, Pope Francis called for global peace, urging world leaders to secure ceasefires by Christmas. Speaking from the Apostolic Palace to thousands of pilgrims gathered in St. Peter’s Square, the pope made an impassioned plea for an end to violence and suffering.

“I appeal to governments and the international community to achieve a ceasefire on all war fronts by the Christmas celebrations,” he said. The pope highlighted specific regions, including Ukraine, the Middle East—with a focus on Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, and Syria—as well as Myanmar, Sudan, and other areas ravaged by conflict. He concluded by asking the faithful to join him in prayer for peace, emphasizing the urgent need for reconciliation.

71st Miracle Recognized at Lourdes

The Archdiocese of Liverpool has officially confirmed the 71st miracle attributed to Lourdes. After reviewing new evidence, Archbishop Malcolm McMahon declared the 1923 healing of World War I veteran John Traynor as miraculous. Traynor, who suffered severe injuries during the war, experienced an unexplained and complete recovery during a pilgrimage to Lourdes.

This historic declaration has been met with widespread joy and will be commemorated with a special celebration in 2025 at Liverpool’s Metropolitan Cathedral. The recognition underscores Lourdes’ enduring significance as a place of faith and healing for millions of pilgrims worldwide.

Adapted by Jacob Stein

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