Earlier this week the world watched in horror as the Notre Dame went up in flames. Although the roof and its spire were lost, the main body of the cathedral survived. So did most of its holy artefacts, and the gleaming, golden cross above the altar – which graces this week’s magazine cover.
The outpouring of grief and sympathy around the world – from Christians and atheists alike – showed how beloved the Notre Dame is as a historical and architectural icon.
However, Damian Thompson, Spectator Associate Editor and host of the Holy Smoke Podcast, says we must not forget that the Notre Dame is primarily a Catholic place of worship. And since its foundations were laid 800 years ago, the church has seen the continuous rise and fall of Catholicism in France and Europe.
Damian joins us on the podcast to discuss what the Notre Dame means to Catholics: along with journalist Matthew Walther.
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