The destruction by fire of the Cathedral of Notre Dame in Paris today is a tragedy that goes beyond the loss of an amazing architectural icon but represents a loss of a church closely associated with French culture and history as well as Catholic tradition and heritage. It is a very sad event that not only is a catastrophe observed by the eye but a loss felt by the heart. Notre Dame Cathedral has been an inspiration for many millions of people from different cultures and religions around the world. Our prayers go out to the people of France at this time and for the firefighter who was badly injured fighting the blaze.
- Most Reverend Richard Gagnon, Archbishop of Winnipeg