The near-destruction of Notre Dame Cathedral in a massive fire Monday in Paris has created widespread disbelief and sadness, including among the many transplanted Americans living there.
Jacksonville native and longtime Paris resident Sheila Stanford said she hasn’t set foot inside the centuries-old church in at least five years. She was overwhelmed by the thought that she may never have the opportunity again.
“I have gone to Notre Dame for Easter Mass, I’ve visited Notre Dame many times, but I haven’t been there lately and now I feel a lot of regret because now it could be destroyed.”
The fire happened during Holy Week, which leads up to Easter on Sunday.
Paris investigators said Monday’s fire was likely an accident since the landmark cathedral was undergoing extensive renovations at the time.
French President Emmanuel Macron has vowed to rebuild Notre Dame, calling on the “world’s greatest talents” to help with the effort.
Contact reporter Cyd Hoskinson at choskinson@wjct.org, 904-358-6351 and on Twitter at @cydwjctnews.
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