Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

Holy Thursday service held at fire-ravaged Notre Dame

A Holy Thursday service has been held at Paris' Notre Dame cathedral, even though it is still under construction after it was ravaged by flames just days before Easter in 2019

Via AP news wire
Thursday 01 April 2021 15:07 BST
France Notre Dame Easter
France Notre Dame Easter (Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

A Holy Thursday service in Paris was held at Notre Dame cathedral, which is still under construction after it was ravaged by flames just days before Easter in 2019, its spire crumbling in a shocking blaze.

The ceremony involved a foot-washing ritual that symbolizes Jesus’ willingness to serve. Six worshipers were chosen for the foot washing, a diverse group including medical staff, the needy and some people who are set to be baptized this Easter.

Paris Bishop Michel Aupetit led the rite, accompanied by Notre-Dame’s rector Patrick Chauvet.

Attendance at the service was sharply restricted due to the cathedral’s reconstruction and the pandemic.

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in