Some Catholics say the secular outpouring reflects the Catholic Church’s diminished relevance.
By Chico Harlan Chico Harlan Rome bureau chief covering southern Europe and sometimes parts beyond Email Bio Follow April 17 at 6:51 PM PARIS — Even before a fire damaged its central symbol, the Catholic Church in France had been dealing with a particularly painful period.
Some French Catholics predict that Mass attendance may see a short-term jump in the aftermath of the fire. Notre Dame did not have parishioners who belonged to the church. It did not host baptisms, weddings or funerals. But it was open every day for Mass. And during Holy Week, it would put its holy relics on display.
“Over the last months, some believers have come to the church saying they want to talk directly to God,” Esparcieux said. “They don’t trust the priests anymore.” Roy mentioned that some French Catholics felt the government had not responded adequately to the vandalization of the churches. The response was criticized on traditionalist Catholic websites.
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