CREEDE HINSHAW: Considering the devastation of Notre Dame

The devastating fire at Notre Dame this week has generated many thoughts:

The loss of sacred space: In the aftermath of a church fire, persons — hoping to minimize the loss — bravely state, “The church is not a building. The church is the people.” Though true, this not only misses the point, it is insensitive to reality. The flames that gut a church building destroy the places where people were married, family members eulogized, children confirmed, baptisms held, prayers answered, the saving word of Jesus heard and grace received. Every church fire is deeply heartbreaking.

The need for sacred space: God has placed in humans the need to set aside space that is hallowed and dedicated to the worship of the divine. Every human civilization has built and set aside such places. Notre Dame represented this, and so much more, for Paris, for France, and to some extent, for the world. I was reminded of this universal desire when I visited the chapel at Callaway Gardens in Georgia. One might conclude the incredibly beautiful woodland setting of pine, azalea and dogwood in the rolling hills and lovely lakes would be worshipful in and of itself. But Callaway’s founders, recognizing the need for sacred space wholly dedicated to God, built an incredibly beautiful chapel of native stone and wood, complete with stained glass and organ. We simply need those sacred spaces.

The challenges of renovation: A leadership book contained this tale: When the builders of one of Europe’s grand cathedrals finished the century-long project, they planted an oak tree forest nearby, recognizing when the church needed new timbers in 200-300 years, they would have wood for harvesting. This parable highlights one of the challenges facing those who will renovate. Are there trees anywhere in Europe that can be used to replace the massive timbers at Notre Dame? Are there craftpersons available to restore this stunning treasure?

The challenges of renovation, part 2: I have read that a few French corporations and individuals of enormous wealth have pledged millions of euros toward the renovation. What a magnificent gesture. What role will the Vatican’s finances play in the massive rebuild? I have no idea how Catholic finance works. Will some of the incredible wealth of this world religion be made available to restore one of its treasures?

The challenges of renovation, part 3: If I read reports correctly, the last major renovation of Notre Dame was around 150 years ago. I find this not entirely surprising. Churches are notorious for deferring the costs of building maintenance to the next generation. Whatever size your congregation, this might be the time to evaluate whether your building needs renovating.

Finally: When a murderer attacked a mosque in Australia, Christians worldwide joined in prayer. Have Muslims and others expressed the same level of support for this famous Christian icon? I hope there has been a reciprocal outpouring.

This Sunday is Easter. Christ is risen. He is risen, indeed!