Pope Leo Prays at Restored Notre-Dame Cathedral

Pope Leo XIV prayed evening prayer at the restored Notre-Dame Cathedral on September 25. He was the first pope to enter the cathedral since its reconstruction following the 2019 fire that destroyed the roof, nave, and spire.

During his homily, the pope noted that the cathedral serves as more than a monument and represents a living center of civilization. He stated that the collective effort to rebuild the structure shows the heart of the people. He told the gathered clergy and religious that the reborn cathedral should encourage them to pursue holiness and their daily missions.

The prayer service was the first meeting between the pope and the Catholic Church of Paris during his visit to France from September 25 to 28. Notre-Dame Cathedral reopened in December 2024, approximately five years after the fire.