Arlington Bishop: ‘Notre Dame is measured by what happened inside it’

Many watched in disbelief on Monday was the Notre Dame cathedral in Paris burned. The 800-year-old medieval cathedral was more than a tourist destination in France, it was also a symbol to many Catholics around the world. Today, Potomac Local asked the Catholic Dioceses of Arlington to give us some thoughts and perspective to ponder in the wake of this tragedy. Bishop Michael F. Burbidge tells us:

It is painful to see such a historic and time tested cathedral burn and suffer extensive damage. While it is appropriate to mourn the loss of this great cathedral, we must remember that the value of the Cathedral of Notre Dame is measured by what happened inside it. These events remind us that our Church transcends bricks and mortar and the beauty of the Church exceeds world class architecture and works of great art. The Catholic Church was founded on Jesus Christ, and its beauty originates from his cross and resurrection, which are celebrated every time we gather around the eucharistic table. I ask all the faithful of the Diocese of Arlington to join me in prayer and unity with Catholics and people of good will for those who live in Paris, France, that they would be comforted and strengthened in this time of sadness.

Burbridge was appointed Bishop of Arlington by Pope Francis in 2016. Prior to serving in Arlington, Burbridge was Bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Raleigh, N.C., and was auxiliary bishop of Philadelphia.