The loss of The Cathedral at Notre Dame is heartbreaking. Watching the continued coverage of the loss of this incredibly historic building is gut-wrenching. Made almost entirely of wood over 800 years old, the destruction is complete.

In my life, I have been privileged to view the cathedral many times. Last fall Chris and I had a wonderful walk around the Île de la Cité, including a relaxing lunch at a cafe on the island. (pictured below). As a young, 14-year-old, I was honored to attend a mass given by French and US priests (The headmaster of BC High was one of the officiants). It was a moving experience that has stayed with me for decades.

The loss of 800 plus years of history is almost inconceivable. It ranks with the destruction of Palmyra as a major historic loss. Construction started in 1163 and finished in 1260. It has been the site of coronations, Henry VI of England and Napoleon Bonaparte, beatifications, Joan of Arc, funerals Charles de Gaulle, and survived revolutions, and two world wars. Of course, the Hunch Back of Notre Dame the novel of Victor Hugo is a well know store worldwide. It is the most significant Catholic building outside of The Vatican.

But, it’s not about religion. More than any religion it is a symbol of history, and how enduring buildings of major importance historic are. As a student of history, I can’t think of any other structure this old that stood intact until today. Thousands of people of all religions visit the cathedral daily and the historic bells range out in support of the USA after 911.

While we do not at this point in time, know how the fire started. Most likely a construction accident. Regardless of how the fire started the loss is a tragedy, and as humans, we stand with Paris on this sad sad day.

Revision from 4/16 – The Cathedral was not completely a total loss as the towers were saved to some extent. The damage is still extream.