President Emmanuel Macron, facing political challenges, hopes the ceremonial reopening of Notre Dame on Saturday will provide a fresh boost to his political career.
Joined by US President-elect Donald Trump, Prince William, and other international dignitaries, Macron will highlight the cathedral’s restoration as a testament to France’s resilience and creative strength.
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In his speech, Macron will encourage the world to look past France’s current turmoil and focus on the determination, organization, and effort that led to the cathedral’s remarkable restoration in just five years.
The ceremony, which takes place amid the recent political upheaval following Prime Minister Michel Barnier’s resignation and the lack of a new appointment, marks a symbolic moment of recovery. Originally planned as a highlight of 2024, alongside the Paris Olympics, the reopening contrasts with the country’s uncertain political climate.
This event also marks the Catholic Church’s formal regaining of control over the cathedral, ahead of Sunday’s first mass. Archbishop Laurent Ulrich will begin the ceremony by knocking on the cathedral’s front door with a staff crafted from one of the fire-damaged roof timbers. Inside, the choir will answer, and the organ will celebrate with “praises of God.”
Although Macron had initially planned to deliver a speech within the cathedral, he was advised that this would violate France’s secular principles. Instead, he visited the site last week to thank the craftsmen, offering a televised tour of the rejuvenated interior.
The evening’s religious service will be followed by a concert featuring Chinese pianist Lang Lang and Canadian singer Garou. On Sunday, the first public mass will take place, with Macron attending and Archbishop Ulrich presiding over the ceremony with 170 bishops and priests. The public masses throughout the week will require reservations in advance.
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