Today, five years after Parisians and the world watched in disbelief as flames engulfed Notre Dame Cathedral, a prayer was answered and the hard work of thousands and faith of millions reopened Notre Dame for the world.

Five years ago, the spire collapsed, the vaulted ceilings crumbled, and its interior was scarred by fire and smoke. The devastation was not just architectural but emotional, an overwhelming loss for a world that saw Notre Dame as a symbol of faith, art, and history. And yet, today, this centuries-old Gothic masterpiece is a testament to unity, resolve, and the strength of human perseverance.

The construction of Notre Dame Cathedral began in 1163, under the reign of King Louis VII, with initial work directed by Bishop Maurice de Sully. The construction was a monumental endeavor and was primarily completed by 1260. Additional modifications and embellishments continued over the next century. The spire was added during a 19th-century restoration.

Although the initial construction spanned 100 years, the cathedral as we know it today reflects centuries of evolution and artistry. Its completion offers a stunning window into the history and innovation of the 13th century.

After the fire in 2019, the restoration of Notre Dame is extraordinary. Over five years, it brought together 250 companies and hundreds of artisans, each bound by the shared mission of restoring one of the world’s most treasured landmarks. From reconstructing its iconic spire to delicately restoring its stained-glass windows and preserving its sacred relics, the project demanded technical ingenuity and incredible care. The nearly $1 billion raised for the effort came not only from philanthropists but from ordinary people. Every contribution reflected the shared conviction that Notre Dame must endure as a source of faith realized once more.

Archbishop Laurent Ulrich of Paris captured the essence of the restoration, calling Notre Dame a “refuge of beauty, tenderness, and consolation.” These words resonate deeply with us as the cathedral reopens its doors today.

The journey of Notre Dame from ruin to restoration reminds us of the challenges we face in our own lives. The devastation galvanized people across the globe. They came together not only to restore a building but to affirm the values it represents—faith, resilience, and the human capacity to overcome adversity. This spirit of collective effort is a powerful lesson for our times.

The cathedral’s painstaking restoration stands as an answered prayer of what we can achieve when driven by a common purpose. Just as Notre Dame has risen from the ashes of devastation, so too can we rise above the divisions that challenge us today.

With unity, trust, and compassion, we can restore what has been lost and recognize the bonds that hold us together.