Churches in France ring bells for Notre Dame Cathedral
More than 100 cathedrals across France rang their bells in solidarity with Notre Dame Cathedral after the fire.
| Churches across France ring bells after Notre Dame Cathedral fire. Video: CNN |
Bells rang out across France at 6:50 p.m. local time on April 17 to commemorate the fire at Notre Dame Cathedral, which the French Bishops' Conference described as "a shock whose impact extends far beyond the Catholic community in the country." More than 100 churches across France joined in the solidarity movement.
"There are so many churches in the center of Paris that we can't count them all. It's good to hear the bells ringing from the churches because it will be a long time before we hear the bells from Notre Dame," said Anne Lebreton, a resident of the central district of Paris where Notre Dame is located.
On the same day, cathedrals and churches in many countries, including the UK, Canada and the US, also rang their bells to share the loss and show support for the 850-year-old French historical structure. Meanwhile, countries such as Italy, Bosnia and Herzegovina lit up many famous landmarks with the three colors of the French flag.
British Prime Minister Theresa May announced the ringing of Westminster bells in solidarity with the country and people of France. She added that on Holy Thursday before Easter, bells in support of Notre Dame Cathedral will ring out again in cathedrals and churches across the UK.
In his first weekly address since the devastating fire at Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, Pope Francis said he was "deeply saddened" by the incident. He also thanked those who risked their lives to save the cathedral.
The Vatican's Minister of Culture, Cardinal Gianfranco Ravasi, on April 16 offered to send experts to help rebuild Notre Dame Cathedral. Countries such as Britain and Russia have also offered to send their best experts to help France restore the building.
On the other hand, many individuals continue to donate large sums of money to rebuild Notre Dame Cathedral. More than 800 million euros ($904 million) have been donated to restore this iconic building.
