The Wired Word for 12082024 - CourtneyR.dev's 2nd Brain

The Wired Word for 12/08/2024 ![rw-book-cover](https://readwise-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/static/images/article3.5c705a01b476.png) ## Metadata - Author: [[The Wired Word]] - Full Title: The Wired Word for 12/08/2024 - Category: #articles - Document Note: --- tags: [#notre_dame_restoration, #faith_buildings, #recovery_restoration] - #notre_dame_restoration - #faith_buildings - #recovery_restoration Author: Communication Resources Source: The Wired Word Reference: [Notre Dame Reopens](#), [CNN Article](#), [Architectural Digest Article](#) date created: 2024-12-07 12:34 --- # Title: Notre Dame Cathedral Reopens: Lessons in Restoration, Faith, and Community ## Table of Contents - [📝 Summary](#-summary) - [📖 Main Content](#-main-content) - [🗒️ Notes](#-notes) - [📖 References](#-references) - [🗣️ Paraphrase](#-paraphrase) - [📰 Newsletter](#-newsletter) - [✅ Action Items](#-action-items) - [🧪 Hypotheses](#-hypotheses) - [📊 Methodology](#-methodology) - [❓ Questions](#-questions) - [🔮 Future Research](#-future-research) - [💡 Implications](#-implications) - [🧠 Learning Styles Assessment](#-learning-styles-assessment) - [📊 Accessibility Assessment](#-accessibility-assessment) - [🌍 DEIB Assessment](#-deib-assessment) - [✅ Logical Validity](#-logical-validity) - [🔍 DARVO Analysis](#-darvo-analysis) - [🔍 SEO Evaluation](#-seo-evaluation) - [🎯 Conclusion](#-conclusion) --- ## 📝 Summary: The Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, heavily damaged by a fire in 2019, reopens today, fulfilling President Macron's ambitious pledge of a five-year restoration. The reopening showcases the extraordinary global effort, faith, and craftsmanship involved in recovering a historic place of worship. Over 250 firms and 2,000 artisans contributed to repairing structural damage, recreating the oak roof and spire, and restoring the cathedral's iconic elements like the Virgin Mary statue, organ, and stained glass. --- ## 📖 Main Content: ### 🗒️ Notes - **Background**: - Notre Dame Cathedral suffered extensive fire damage in April 2019. - President Macron promised a five-year restoration timeline. - $891 million was raised globally to fund the restoration. - **Restoration Highlights**: - 2,000 artisans worked on metal, carpentry, and stained glass. - Original oak roof structure and spire rebuilt. - 8,000 organ pipes cleaned and retuned. - Iconic Virgin Mary statue spared and reinstated ceremonially. - **Significance**: - The cathedral symbolizes faith, resilience, and community. - Paris locals and visitors see it as a spiritual and cultural landmark. - **Challenges**: - Restoration faced delays due to a pandemic. - Questions remain about the long-term role of such spaces in a changing world. Here are the scripture references provided in the **New Revised Standard Version Updated Edition (NRSVUE)** translation, followed by answers to each question posed in the article: --- ### **Scripture References** #### **Isaiah 56:7** *“These I will bring to my holy mountain, and make them joyful in my house of prayer; their burnt offerings and their sacrifices will be accepted on my altar; for my house shall be called a house of prayer for all peoples.”* #### **Haggai 1:14-15** *"So the Lord stirred up the spirit of Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel, governor of Judah, and the spirit of Joshua son of Jehozadak, the high priest, and the spirit of all the remnant of the people, and they came and worked on the house of the Lord of hosts, their God, on the twenty-fourth day of the month, in the sixth month."* #### **Haggai 2:3-5** *"Who is left among you that saw this house in its former glory? How does it look to you now? Is it not in your sight as nothing? Yet now take courage, O Zerubbabel, says the Lord; take courage, O Joshua, son of Jehozadak, the high priest; take courage, all you people of the land, says the Lord; work, for I am with you, says the Lord of hosts, according to the promise that I made you when you came out of Egypt. My spirit abides among you; do not fear."* #### **Haggai 2:7, 9** *"I will shake all the nations, so that the treasure of all nations shall come, and I will fill this house with splendor, says the Lord of hosts."* *"The latter splendor of this house shall be greater than the former, says the Lord of hosts; and in this place I will give prosperity, says the Lord of hosts."* #### **Matthew 21:12-13** *"Then Jesus entered the temple and drove out all who were selling and buying in the temple, and he overturned the tables of the money changers and the seats of those who sold doves. He said to them, 'It is written, "My house shall be called a house of prayer," but you are making it a den of robbers.’”* #### **Ephesians 2:19-22** *"So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are citizens with the saints and also members of the household of God, built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the cornerstone. In him the whole structure is joined together and grows into a holy temple in the Lord, in whom you also are built together spiritually into a dwelling place for God."* --- ### **Questions and Answers** #### **The Big Questions** 1. **When, if ever, have you been challenged to recover from a devastating event, such as a natural disaster, a divorce, or the loss of a family member or friend? How did you do it, and how was your life different after your recovery?** - *Personal experiences of loss and recovery vary. For many, faith, prayer, and the support of a community help rebuild their lives. Recovery often brings resilience, deeper faith, and a renewed perspective on life's priorities.* 2. **What role does the Christian faith play in rebuilding? What spiritual practices or activities have been helpful to you?** - *Christian faith provides hope, guidance, and community during rebuilding. Practices like prayer, worship, scripture reading, and fellowship with others offer strength and clarity.* 3. **How important is your home church to your practice of the faith? What meaning or significance does your church building contain?** - *A home church often serves as a central place for worship, community, and spiritual growth. Many people attach significant meaning to its history, architecture, and role in their faith journey.* 4. **Some people see the statue of the Virgin Mary as the symbolic heart of the Notre Dame Cathedral. What do you see as the symbolic heart of your church? How would you feel if it were lost, and why?** - *Answers depend on personal perspective. For some, it might be the altar, cross, or baptismal font. Losing it could evoke a sense of grief or disconnection from sacred memories.* 5. **Notre Dame is a Paris landmark, but also a place of worship. What goes on in Notre Dame, and in your home church, that is important to you, and why? What value do such buildings have to the larger community? What would you do to preserve such a building for future generations? Be specific.** - *Notre Dame and local churches host worship, music, prayer, and community events. Such buildings symbolize faith and heritage. Preservation could involve fundraising, active use, and engaging the community.* --- #### **Scripture-Based Questions** 1. **In what ways does the prophet Isaiah rebuild the purity code of the Israelites? Who is now included in God's "house of prayer"? What does this message challenge you to work on in your own community of faith?** - *Isaiah broadens the covenant to include eunuchs and foreigners, emphasizing inclusion over exclusion. God's "house of prayer" welcomes all faithful people. This challenges faith communities to prioritize inclusivity.* 2. **What does it feel like to have your spirit "stirred up" by God, after a personal loss? What, if anything, did you do to recover and rebuild? When, if ever, have you felt God working to give you peace, harmony, wholeness, or completeness?** - *Feeling "stirred up" often involves renewed purpose and strength. Recovery might include prayer, worship, and seeking support. Moments of divine peace often follow obedience and trust in God.* 3. **How has Jesus been involved in the work of recovery and restoration in your life? Where have you seen him playing a disruptive role? When is the presence of Jesus experienced most powerfully in the life of your congregation? What does your church building do to help you feel Christ's presenc - Document Tags: [[architecture]] [[Family & Relationships]] [[note dame]] [[worship]] - Summary: Five years after a devastating fire, the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris is being reopened to the public. Dear Class Members, Five years after a devastating fire, the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris is being reopened to the public. The restoration of this beautiful and historic worship space gives *The Wired Word* an opportunity to focus on recovery, restoration and the role that sacred places play in the Christian faith. ![](https://www.thewiredword.com/_img/tww_logo_email.jpg) **Notre Dame Cathedral Reopens After Fire*****The Wired Word*** **for the Week of December 8, 2024** **In the News** In April 2019, the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris caught fire and suffered devastating damage. Two days later, French President Emmanuel Macron pledged that the cathedral would reopen within five years. He promised that the stunning gothic structure would be "rebuilt even more beautifully," and his vow has been kept. Despite the fact that restorations of this scale often take decades -- even when not interrupted by global pandemics -- Notre Dame is reopening today, December 8, 2024. The cause of the fire remains a mystery, although investigators believe it was accidental, perhaps caused by an improperly extinguished cigarette or an electrical malfunction. (For a lesson on the fire, see *The Wired Word's* installment "World Responds to Notre Dame Cathedral Holy Week Fire," April 28, 2019.) Macron "can honestly say that he's kept a promise that many critics and experts doubted was possible," said Bill Whitaker, [a](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPBxnHMU9QMICZ4NjuSVxEvKcjJlLbN-2B0ooWifXyHzVNzwrdLx65qvp3WpK-2FGUUByIW01I9beWr3XzptQiQKjo2K9Dc2UVoCxjjFC8wCwDNBAsV-2BsWn98ig-2B2C0nd4nFTRg-3D-3DkOkf_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92Ymff6j-2FXhReyTStf6i-2FiQCrFrp0U-2BxBiucSWzcrjU9lr2CZdN-2BVibXXFu6MmEH6Z7bDnKz-2B7H7-2B15mrVwo8KOBL7mulh27esXmft7CVHlQVOATqXkor3JEEXiMJkc89pzUIucroAUMmpoGojAASJlsFbgFLxYiCjsY6QI3y9-2BLT3-2BgU2yiD374THnlD30te42K-2BVrGyCA3u-2FzTortlE3YADEuPqNhkEUVCNY1PfC0M0sIl8dmhvmd9E08lq5JgEv4epjsAykIKDtzJOLZly4Aw90-3D) [*60 Minutes*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPBxnHMU9QMICZ4NjuSVxEvKcjJlLbN-2B0ooWifXyHzVNzwrdLx65qvp3WpK-2FGUUByIW01I9beWr3XzptQiQKjo2K9Dc2UVoCxjjFC8wCwDNBAsV-2BsWn98ig-2B2C0nd4nFTRg-3D-3DT91p_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92Ymff6j-2FXhReyTStf6i-2FiQCrFrp0U-2BxBiucSWzcrjU9lr2CZdN-2BVibXXFu6MmEH6Z7bN-2Bq3DzDMHeTM5YGYMHkMJo00ulN-2BV906B3p95NnJXoJXAncegHE7zZdWyMZhby2XxYMYOse6tEXLFVjSD6xDV1bg1egKFnJko9PgRddBcuvyBj6-2BjFXA64XMRda-2FwIPgZgOnPsgjjxLBtQ1g7UnaAOVScNhw8CqTEn3J2n89-2FhqNqBoCzTGykmFAHX8o8DVd56QsnDlYPLflzBK8-2Fu6AbI-3D) [correspondent](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPBxnHMU9QMICZ4NjuSVxEvKcjJlLbN-2B0ooWifXyHzVNzwrdLx65qvp3WpK-2FGUUByIW01I9beWr3XzptQiQKjo2K9Dc2UVoCxjjFC8wCwDNBAsV-2BsWn98ig-2B2C0nd4nFTRg-3D-3DyuVH_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92Ymff6j-2FXhReyTStf6i-2FiQCrFrp0U-2BxBiucSWzcrjU9lr2CZdN-2BVibXXFu6MmEH6Z7bHPsDLBgr4-2BATzsV3rTQ-2FxZuhItA-2BpIUKAoKYkHirUM8pD4jUaj2ho1GoHRJhq960nErqYH85Z35ngoBBkxtj69Y4ltCHn-2FOvX2UQmIPO7S8-2FNJyxLzXjgvGlwByv0ICmJdKntYA8xxoQI0BiiwqujoGQ3O9v4joyfBcJ87ta7sIZJWrRm1Rxx-2BMg-2F0tQMMrfng7U-2FC78mvBJnissMDLG-2B4-3D), to *Architectural Digest.* In November, Whitaker and his team visited the cathedral and were the first crew from the United States to enter the structure since its refurbishment. "It was humbling," Whitaker said. "A true privilege to be inside this 860-year-old cathedral, restored to its glory." Nearly 250 firms, specializing in fields such as metal work, carpentry and stained glass, played a role in the restoration. A total of 2,000 dedicated artisans were employed in the project. Although much of the wooden roof was destroyed in the fire, along with the cathedral's spire, the main structure was unharmed -- including the bell towers and rose windows. Restoration of the cathedral involved stabilization of the cathedral's exterior, cleaning of walls and statues, repair of paintings damaged by smoke and water, re-creation of the original oak roof structure, and rebuilding of the spire. To complete the work, numerous oak trees were felled, the tallest being 88 feet. The 8,000 organ pipes in France's largest instrument were cleaned and retuned. A total of 1,500 solid oak pews were crafted, and 1,300 cubic meters of stone were replaced. *CNN* cameraman Mark Esplin recalls that there was still a "huge hole in the ceiling" when he toured the site in 2019, adding, "You could see right up to the sky." The hole had been created when the cathedral's spire burned and toppled to the ground. Today, the octagonal base of a new 315-foot spire fills the hole in the ceiling. The spire is almost identical to the one designed in the 19th century by architect Eugène Viollet-le-Duc. One year ago, "there was an absolute forest of scaffolding inside the cathedral -- it weighed 600 tons," said Whitaker. "Now, all of that is gone, and the interior is filled with light. It's shining." The central nave of the cathedral is finally uncluttered, and its magnificent columns soar to the ceiling. The walls have been stripped of centuries of dust and grime, and they appear to be brand new. "It's a wonder," said Phillipe Jost, the head of the rebuilding effort, to *CNN*. "Even for us who are very often in the cathedral, it doesn't get old, it gets more beautiful every day." With treasures to be found throughout the sacred landmark, there is "a Sistine Chapel effect," said Jost. Some residents of Paris have hailed the return of the statue of the Virgin Mary to Notre Dame as "miraculous." Since the name Notre Dame means "Our Lady," referring to the Virgin Mary, this statue is considered to be the symbolic heart of the cathedral. Somehow spared in the fire, the statue was recently returned to the cathedral in an evening procession attended by hundreds. Restoring Notre Dame has cost an estimated $737 million, according to "Rebuilding Notre Dame de Paris," the public body headed by Jost. Overall, $891 million were raised in donations from 340,000 donors in 150 countries. The extra funds will be used to restore other monuments. More on this story can be found at these links: [Notre Dame Reopening: Inside the Cathedral for the First Time Since the Fire.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPB9FkExImcpfOmULVUwwLB48RP5jFaEGQR02ZxHLBRdsEIfhrxUwfKsw51oMbt-2BQQfvXLJxnCQSokwdiatb5cJENVqelb-2B-2F68SY4JlZOoEZS187ISkTW-2BrA3oBhq266LsF8oGz9h9G3WuHoCrEZaD4XhGPUIefNMCNTtsP1eE3cdnRtcx7ZqbiOtUE-2BLdecJxUTqo8r51EBKGB3WnElPaVPIr9JU22CJKZFl8zHdCagApQez_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92Ymff6j-2FXhReyTStf6i-2FiQCrFrp0U-2BxBiucSWzcrjU9lr2CZdN-2BVibXXFu6MmEH6Z7bNWXukWwKPPVJWS0Z9w4jIfMfrSsTokTFqim38KzZuyV4oiVrjEqVIpDhSx5L125jzxzqU1WxyMhcI-2BUN9qbgIzUS5Qvz0kJ68lnAKdYiHpIxbXs86EiZfgifRORsR-2BguQhrndKfF488kEzw5isSLBaCe09Xfa-2FGfQYZwwvwzNnxLut7C5fiDyPyr78TFIqpooEfL-2BUh7hdZCIkOB3UbNt4-3D) [*Architectural Digest*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPB9FkExImcpfOmULVUwwLB48RP5jFaEGQR02ZxHLBRdsEIfhrxUwfKsw51oMbt-2BQQfvXLJxnCQSokwdiatb5cJENVqelb-2B-2F68SY4JlZOoEZS187ISkTW-2BrA3oBhq266LsF8oGz9h9G3WuHoCrEZaD4XhGPUIefNMCNTtsP1eE3cdnRtcx7ZqbiOtUE-2BLdecJxUTqo8r51EBKGB3WnElPaVPIr9JU22CJKZFl8zHdCagAVdji_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92Ymff6j-2FXhReyTStf6i-2FiQCrFrp0U-2BxBiucSWzcrjU9lr2CZdN-2BVibXXFu6MmEH6Z7bDF52yEfa8A-2BkxoB33-2BGJYzKdpHhxBuP7SwSeXcYia7Qs9LAV3F1SZECSTHAJ6JkEGaxPCfKJpd3UkBfLKu50vmumuFn6WD20wFgpqfIJll7g-2FJ1MqF9D5ii49vv1E-2BgfL3eDtwyfWDHJFuA7ETjB7OsR59LDS-2Bc1aY-2BbSH-2BSVDMtK25OSEhPOLQ3x-2ByN-2FED3m7pcbyqe2k1Zg0WK3yDd-2F0-3D) [Notre Dame Is Back -- But Not Quite as You Knew Her. CNN](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPKy3TtZJUNBApOSK1-2FQMe4GWhiOFSxyqjQO4IApGtdJzqBROYbiL3Kd2E-2Fsaor6mniFMJ8n4Vx1bBjYBpyMLKNAdAqPtTUgPCeAz7i1pSNnbdgSB_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92Ymff6j-2FXhReyTStf6i-2FiQCrFrp0U-2BxBiucSWzcrjU9lr2CZdN-2BVibXXFu6MmEH6Z7bO18o4Z8oFvJ7rrWmhk0XfKkZf-2FfBnAWsXBYjhac-2BH0aYOveCbfDYQPDMwdpgzGDG8lQOgrLKhG-2BPo-2F5tLVR-2FCOt7SgQv9Q5pO2LynyGKXJUOSdFk2aTH9QC-2FQZwR0QhX3pU798hazz9h8M8IaLOKbG8PkBM-2BHZtumOBLuw98MkL1WesPh-2BN0MOM13G1zWgBbWRZC-2Fj9rMFDn6IC3mNo6q8-3D) **Applying the News Story** Use the reopening of Notre Dame to reflect on your own experiences of loss, recovery and rebuilding. Discuss the importance of your home church in your practice of the Christian faith. Consider what you might do to preserve your church building for future generations. **The Big Questions** 1. When, if ever, have you been challenged to recover from a devastating event, such as a natural disaster, a divorce or the loss of a family member or friend? How did you do it, and how was your life different after your recovery? 2. What role does the Christian faith play in rebuilding? What spiritual practices or activities have been helpful to you? 3. How important is your home church to your practice of the faith? What meaning or significance does your church building contain? 4. Some people see the statue of the Virgin Mary as the symbolic heart of the Notre Dame Cathedral. What do you see as the symbolic heart of your church? How would you feel if it were lost, and why? 5. Notre Dame is a Paris landmark, but also a place of worship. What goes on in Notre Dame, and in your home church, that is important to you, and why? What value do such buildings have to the larger community? What would you do to preserve such a building for future generations? Be specific. **Confronting the News With Scripture and Hope**Here are some Bible verses to guide your discussion: **Isaiah 56:7***[Thus says the LORD] ... for my house shall be called a house of prayer for all peoples.* (For context, read [Isaiah 56:1-8.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzx8fPDsj5S5hW7hBewUShLx3MTqQ9rQK1wFCmT7KQ3hfHUiOkUe7jZSqvG-2BxD6ywrYjUkh_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92Ymff6j-2FXhReyTStf6i-2FiQCrFrp0U-2BxBiucSWzcrjU9lr2CZdN-2BVibXXFu6MmEH6Z7bBglNrZ-2BFc2IzULJZ1A-2FdH6jUskVCImsikjZC1jw2Xo8yMzJvkdDhr9nqK8EEBLMvKNlABRKPf-2B8xen9WIc9RzLJO4O2MLDFONwjeaQ63SgQ94TCKg8BsLJhK6M6J3447TqgDwK3fArHScAoaIL4Qn4uVI5Jur9WI3s0iPesKu4TI00DCRf3oiTo3Vau8z8LSyB4Ta-2BHtG5EYX7kB5wpbvY-3D)) The 56th chapter of the book of the prophet Isaiah speaks of God's covenant being extended, for the first time, beyond the people of Israel. "Happy is the mortal who does this," said Isaiah, "the one who holds it fast, who keeps the Sabbath, not profaning it, and refrains from doing any evil" (v. 2). Any mortal who keeps the Sabbath and refrains from evil can now be part of God's covenant community, including foreigners and eunuchs (v. 3). This insight by Isaiah was revolutionary, because the purity code of Deuteronomy had excluded these categories of people. But Isaiah offered a new vision of community, one in which all people who honor the Lord in their actions are to be included. Speaking through Isaiah, God said, "To the eunuchs who keep my Sabbaths, who choose the things that please me and hold fast my covenant, ... I will give them an everlasting name that shall not be cut off" (vv. 4-5). The tragedy of the eunuch was that he was cut off, literally -- no chance of having children to carry on his name. But now, if the eunuch was faithful, God would give him an everlasting name. "And the foreigners who join themselves to the LORD, to minister to him," says Isaiah, "these I will bring to my holy mountain, and make them joyful in my house of prayer" (vv. 6–7). Previously excluded people are now included, because they honor God in their actions and relationships. They are accepted because God wants to be worshiped in "a house of prayer for all peoples." Old Testament scholar Brevard Childs says that this verse "removes any doubt that God's purpose for his house is directed to all peoples without restriction." God's house is now open to everyone who keeps the Sabbath and holds fast to the covenant. > **Questions:** In what ways does the prophet Isaiah rebuild the purity code of the Israelites? Who is now included in God's "house of prayer"? What does this message challenge you to work on in your own community of faith? **Haggai 1:14-15***And the LORD stirred up the spirit of Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel, governor of Judah, and the spirit of Joshua son of Jehozadak, the high priest, and the spirit of all the remnant of the people, and they came and worked on the house of the LORD of hosts, their God, on the twenty-fourth day of the month, in the sixth month.* (For context, read [Haggai 1:14 - 2:9.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxOA1k4HTQRIUT7STvSavT2LNHjtMNCLuBjoFMEIQLc2-2F4Ij71GvUyKC-2BIF391eHjz67QxO7-2Btufw3pG33BlPh6Q-3D-3Da4hI_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92Ymff6j-2FXhReyTStf6i-2FiQCrFrp0U-2BxBiucSWzcrjU9lr2CZdN-2BVibXXFu6MmEH6Z7bF4VI8r13cn-2Bl7To-2FbwQjIpoWuhT0ezQD6ccLR3u-2BMeVp8MoZxBcGDSSgQpjOliO6vULdTDXb-2FoXueoSmGoRn0sO369uiQQxHELA8QFo8KiQspS-2BEUOjk43klopgoTsxtoMbJUtYC4EYqYuY3Ic-2BD9bSYDRAEbcbw1DMoiIlK-2Bm-2F38QsNLd5Pfu7lkzwr95O9ey2ymzGd9mg1ctFyc0jtWs-3D)) The prophet Haggai focuses on the rebuilding of the temple after the exile in Babylon, and the book begins with God commanding the governor of Judah and the high priest to begin work on the structure. The project was a top priority since the temple was Israel's primary place of worship and sacrifice, and was the spot where God was believed to be present. Haggai says that "the LORD stirred up the spirit" of the governor, the high priest and the remnant of the people of Israel, and "they came and worked on the house of the LORD." God asked them, "Who is left among you who saw this house in its former glory? How does it look to you now?" (2:3). At this point, the rebuilt temple was nothing more than a foundation. In spite of this unimpressive sight, God tells the people and their leaders to "take courage ... for I am with you ... according to the promise that I made you when you came out of Egypt. My spirit abides among you; do not fear" (2:4-5). God promises to "fill this house with splendor" (2:7) -- making it more glorious than the temple of Solomon -- and "in this place I will give prosperity, says the LORD" (2:9). The word translated "prosperity" is *shalom*, which means peace, harmony, wholeness and completeness. Shalom "includes restoration of health, cessation of hostilities, and enrichment of individual and community life, prosperity in the richest sense of the term," writes Old Testament professor W. Eugene March. God "not only assured the people that the Temple would be made splendid, but also that the ill health of the community, its economic weakness, its vulnerability, would be replaced by God's 'peace.'" > **Questions:** What does it feel like to have your spirit "stirred up" by God, after a personal loss? What, if anything, did you do to recover and rebuild? When, if ever, have you felt God working to give you peace, harmony, wholeness or completeness? **Matthew 21:12-13***Then Jesus entered the temple and drove out all who were selling and buying in the temple, and he overturned the tables of the money changers and the seats of those who sold doves. He said to them, "It is written, 'My house shall be called a house of prayer,' but you are making it a den of robbers."* (No context needed.) Matthew is concerned with placing Jesus in the story of God's saving work, which began in Genesis and continued through the Hebrew Scriptures. He seems to be presenting Jesus as a second Moses, giving new laws and teachings to Israel and to the world. After Jesus enters Jerusalem on a donkey and colt, he cleanses the temple. He does this because he is upset that God's "house of prayer" (a quotation of Isaiah 56:7) has become "a den of robbers" (a quotation of Jeremiah 7:11). Jesus is presenting himself as a prophet to the people, in addition to being a new lawgiver. He is also passing judgment on the temple and presenting himself as the place in which God is now most fully present in the world. > **Questions:** How has Jesus been involved in the work of recovery and restoration in your life? Where have you seen him playing a disruptive role? When is the presence of Jesus experienced most powerfully in the life of your congregation? What does your church building do to help you feel Christ's presence, if anything? **Ephesians 2:21** *[In Christ] the whole structure is joined together and grows into a holy temple in the Lord.* (For context, read [Ephesians 2:19-22](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzx9vldlDvqp-2B7wfJkKn-2B61s-2BtnASWAfe6bfVQhSd6Pgq7444BGyVDTbkca-2Bua0baC0TzjP_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92Ymff6j-2FXhReyTStf6i-2FiQCrFrp0U-2BxBiucSWzcrjU9lr2CZdN-2BVibXXFu6MmEH6Z7bEpMJuOtODsXHymQzJzxklnftuDN2C-2BB7yTEZul4WCGzlYx2OeJqXl8wqk700VX6Ges3ikyIzNlAM90C3iCMkCoQeqXKg3sDcUcE8OPGsJ3100-2F2sjF-2BKVy7E7vha8Dl-2FmOtMwdgGSkBYZITK55hS73coLggVXwkJoA3cbRfiAXwt-2B9-2BNq0yJWVex2tceER-2BfcLrV-2BEzb8juJXMTRKe6O4Y-3D).) In his letter to the Ephesians, the apostle Paul was writing to the people of Ephesus, a city in Asia Minor. They knew a lot about building temples, since they lived in a city that contained the Greek temple of Artemis, which was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. But Paul encouraged them to build another kind of temple, one that was made of human beings. He said, you are "members of the household of God, built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the cornerstone" (vv. 19-20). Paul is saying that God wants to make his home in a new kind of temple, one that is built of living stones like ourselves. Together, we are the walls and floors and roof of this house of God. But in order for us to keep from falling over, we have to be built on a foundation of apostles and prophets, with a cornerstone that is none other than Jesus himself. It is in Christ that "the whole structure is joined together and grows into a holy temple in the Lord." When we stand together on Jesus the cornerstone, we can be the holy temple that God wants us to be. > **Questions:** How is your congregation a "holy temple," built on the solid foundation of apostles, prophets and Jesus? What do you do to stay connected to your fellow living stones? What role does your church building play in the vitality of your "household of God"? **For Further Discussion** 1. TWW Team Member Henry Brinton has written a novel, [*City of Peace*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPGRAfabCXRFNA5kzk67Eh1oj67qF5-2B9x69bzWEczpREHO1Wyfrkjkg1sOAuhUDoOS0VBOMI7vqWV1xHtSQx9TNg-3D29Tf_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92Ymff6j-2FXhReyTStf6i-2FiQCrFrp0U-2BxBiucSWzcrjU9lr2CZdN-2BVibXXFu6MmEH6Z7bCNVkngp3GFNf5NStp7Q-2F55ZpL-2Bb7x7SgHN3pWZ8jNR-2BWxv7DQAQ0pu6-2BI6nf7ZlqBPsbECNjPGUBjm4295Brz9uj0DnvQRda13Xw-2BqVpgp9u55qeyXF3sS06J8g2PA8U6gNUED3nRrIgdXHoq0n6aceryPXpv2UmDktmEY5MywIsIoxwsApwKgQJow6Qsw6vnG0iJigpnfs4WpYUxUbNn0-3D), in which Pastor Harley Camden describes Riverside Methodist Church in this way: "Running his fingers along the backs of the wooden pews, he imagined that the space had been the site of countless milestones over the course of a century and a quarter -- dedications, baptisms, weddings, funerals. Anguished prayers had been said here, rousing sermons had been preached, lives had been changed. Generations of African Americans, in particular, had looked up at the Jesus in the stained glass and found strength to live with faith and dignity in a segregated society." What church buildings have evoked similar feelings for you? Which memories are especially important to you? 2. Notre Dame is "scarred and wounded but transformed," [according to](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPKy3TtZJUNBApOSK1-2FQMe4GWhiOFSxyqjQO4IApGtdJzqBROYbiL3Kd2E-2Fsaor6mniFMJ8n4Vx1bBjYBpyMLKNAdAqPtTUgPCeAz7i1pSNnbSrPH_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92Ymff6j-2FXhReyTStf6i-2FiQCrFrp0U-2BxBiucSWzcrjU9lr2CZdN-2BVibXXFu6MmEH6Z7bL4mmn-2BLwQtl3EvYzU5pmgLRGjbl4B0vBj9-2BvfxKjXwCgOmob8gYcl6RCcV1KbSf93PU3ruMQRCPg6aCt7vqhoSK4ud1cF9v-2FkBsIrgBFPKoNn5txgUMGbB-2B-2Bx4rCZacGwVoTVy6S6MALuNjdr6J655eJnkwGFb8xVM1Z-2FpapumgYExnO0tXyVSyyCmGY4v8fqkb8lJlk7zjGKnruLUPEq8-3D) [*CNN*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPKy3TtZJUNBApOSK1-2FQMe4GWhiOFSxyqjQO4IApGtdJzqBROYbiL3Kd2E-2Fsaor6mniFMJ8n4Vx1bBjYBpyMLKNAdAqPtTUgPCeAz7i1pSNnbITtS_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92Ymff6j-2FXhReyTStf6i-2FiQCrFrp0U-2BxBiucSWzcrjU9lr2CZdN-2BVibXXFu6MmEH6Z7bIIPvDDluCn8RzXIZVNdYR3dsBtqC9-2BK-2FNpUulLzqiXkIkDcd-2FUEpHFjYcF5rkGy7a4TyKn6HsMUekopHbP0Qx9CV32a2WLphj8hnIt8bHSUuAWvnL5diIwNlkb4ibUXLOJfV-2FXhzmEh1ruBKzg92FZ1v2KChCBiIi89ikEfhHwwskFJyjkPneoB7GDIk4Wc22LWbW-2F1BSwMVw-2FtOOTSWQ0-3D)[.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPKy3TtZJUNBApOSK1-2FQMe4GWhiOFSxyqjQO4IApGtdJzqBROYbiL3Kd2E-2Fsaor6mniFMJ8n4Vx1bBjYBpyMLKNAdAqPtTUgPCeAz7i1pSNnbX82U_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92Ymff6j-2FXhReyTStf6i-2FiQCrFrp0U-2BxBiucSWzcrjU9lr2CZdN-2BVibXXFu6MmEH6Z7bFHSFF5bi6SzwUipNeIwTJLCYa5oJaAHTEge-2FlzqrnpQ40DH-2FwUAiKRfRrP8AoDPAi7jXeB2Ld7RC-2F5LNXhVyj2LsFr3EJotubYH2cXM-2Fv5F2VgHR2hnJzcuVSISjsANhGvzIb1oEGK-2BwSjewyp-2BmkjfFTG35MU2gnY2e8Dq05g8hBKW8WKtE8OJrt8fHMyuj3mTVlBjSM9t2lgHP69L1tI-3D) How is this an appropriate description of individual Christians, as well as of this cathedral? In what ways have you been scarred and wounded, but transformed by God? How has this impacted your testimony to others? 3. Just as there is a core to the Christian religion, writes TWW Team Member Bill Tammeus, "so there is a core to Notre Dame. That centrality, at least viewed from the outside, is the big-boned, imposing presence that has stood for the faith's core, even as the city around the cathedral changed in breathtaking ways." How has your church building "stood for the faith's core"? What can you do to preserve its witness, even as the world around it changes? 4. "Thousands of churches close every year," [reports](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPCHqQGefcQySWH-2Bid1tRnzbiIzNDePG9r2QOu-2FCwG0GEa5jkW3seu2mKrKuDLDZzgn13jEBjMdZ9sPuuMqOhP0dBo5rgDjZXyyaNsowENuQ-2BQqhHr4itpKXtwZejO3wlk2qoZ35RJH5eaUmieCzf5ZI-3D64MJ_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92Ymff6j-2FXhReyTStf6i-2FiQCrFrp0U-2BxBiucSWzcrjU9lr2CZdN-2BVibXXFu6MmEH6Z7bJLmVU7QJou0tDIIgdpOBltfPZPtkJTI92VGcc-2FZTB90FokGwW0fUXVTiGgosWd08YC1OoPgPEqq5kVr1uQWq-2F2Dw17ZGSCM8sXSCu5LFpCRhNFRh3LCbPvJ-2FlrU0PNI152IGElmCI5brWHLgsVB6yb2nmo8XST925FNPrjtFVEHcnDsRQoN7IbkSA9mJr995eyKFtKLXNb14EXcQmd2IuY-3D) [*Religion News Service*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPCHqQGefcQySWH-2Bid1tRnzbiIzNDePG9r2QOu-2FCwG0GEa5jkW3seu2mKrKuDLDZzgn13jEBjMdZ9sPuuMqOhP0dBo5rgDjZXyyaNsowENuQ-2BQqhHr4itpKXtwZejO3wlk2qoZ35RJH5eaUmieCzf5ZI-3DS2tJ_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92Ymff6j-2FXhReyTStf6i-2FiQCrFrp0U-2BxBiucSWzcrjU9lr2CZdN-2BVibXXFu6MmEH6Z7bHTFejyA8ZA-2FCQrRLagiuQDucrKOKqywBWUIe9QADZ1besSYYy8Vh3OEKaLPwYqvAHTDCub5GJfpnr8JFQc3wQcqHzpzWVP7mxdUE2U4f2qpw-2FXceHhQMhgwb910FOqjOkmfrw88r6rxvpoHh7rVdeHIWpm2kr6HbXgOvvuOldi1hXCJMQWhg8-2FBOUGSU4O1yNLOGzmY-2Bp3cRGlFhrIE6YY-3D). "What will happen to their buildings?" Not every church building can or should be repaired and restored. When should a church building be sold or torn down? How can God's will be done at such a time? What advice would you give to a congregation faced with such a decision? **Responding to the News** Take a careful look at your church building, and assess what needs to be restored or renovated. Focus on the elements of the building that are central to the practice of the Christian faith. Talk with fellow church members about an action you can take together, to preserve or improve your building as a center for ministry and mission. **Prayer** We thank you, Lord, for the effort put into restoring buildings in which Christ is honored and the faith is practiced. Help us to build our lives on the foundation of prophets and apostles, keeping Jesus as our cornerstone. Amen. ****Copyright 2024 Communication Resources**** [Unsubscribe From This List](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/asm/unsubscribe/?user_id=14323725&data=SAIeegzIVBLqiHnid02QsslBJfy73pZqtwUH12RBnn9oMDAwdTAwMFFM6odUvrqDx-Cdh753R44x6Dtu479cRbOHvFzWm26xCHBveLcFosDy_0eTH7lq8rEwgPCvcrLzG0VTBFqADK-J7TwGeDRaZ4DyZdJJ3rgSbSgVEAClYW69RmCAEaCZsHaERreoAnwpH4EXR31xzNBaiVrKqWPrXCNHMcYnDRGS0Igr6gWMhXKqm3lxKgao93tbIrUrkGPYMMgI5dYfmzo9_EXncAm1NbV2YfaoVQR52t75zkEXvTmGnuMIiot7SaTW0zPyQJeTIzMnhLm8W9MJqmTyIyQ5l-qys-OYUX27HvTw1hwuJaYY6Jvxzj-YVB2VDhhQN5Y8lltRh6t5wW5i5JGtmW3J-N_rqBGeh_M6agcTcdgYQwTDghQVarTxp02H4tJhIEvtbbiEnATOe0Tx57L5k9bKnkoqRfjU2lRVHoQIpJaqPLKXLv-Mvr_Ze9GH2uzONkqxa3C8HKfJfTzBbNgTRiXyge4k7HOrgBKR6jNfe61mSKCUxepAWfFLP-NBNgRev0VMl5o8Q8NAbU9WW247wLQWdD32lWBKSqDtl8wUdHS4-Q6yhIqXNbbmvustmP-Hs05z0qbavom7asg=) <div>Dear Class Members, Five years after a devastating fire, the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris is being reopened to the public. The restoration of this beautiful and historic worship space gives The Wired Word an opportunity to focus on recovery, restoration and the role that sacred places play in the Christian faith. <center><img src="https://www.thewiredword.com/\_img/tww\_logo\_email.jpg"/></center> Notre Dame Cathedral Reopens After Fire The Wired Word for the Week of December 8, 2024 In the News In April 2019, the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris caught fire and suffered devastating damage. Two days later, French President Emmanuel Macron pledged that the cathedral would reopen within five years. He promised that the stunning gothic structure would be "rebuilt even more beautifully," and his vow has been kept. Despite the fact that restorations of this scale often take decades -- even when not interrupted by global pandemics -- Notre Dame is reopening today, December 8, 2024. The cause of the fire remains a mystery, although investigators believe it was accidental, perhaps caused by an improperly extinguished cigarette or an electrical malfunction. (For a lesson on the fire, see The Wired Word's installment "World Responds to Notre Dame Cathedral Holy Week Fire," April 28, 2019.) Macron "can honestly say that he's kept a promise that many critics and experts doubted was possible," said Bill Whitaker, <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPBxnHMU9QMICZ4NjuSVxEvKcjJlLbN-2B0ooWifXyHzVNzwrdLx65qvp3WpK-2FGUUByIW01I9beWr3XzptQiQKjo2K9Dc2UVoCxjjFC8wCwDNBAsV-2BsWn98ig-2B2C0nd4nFTRg-3D-3DkOkf\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92Ymff6j-2FXhReyTStf6i-2FiQCrFrp0U-2BxBiucSWzcrjU9lr2CZdN-2BVibXXFu6MmEH6Z7bDnKz-2B7H7-2B15mrVwo8KOBL7mulh27esXmft7CVHlQVOATqXkor3JEEXiMJkc89pzUIucroAUMmpoGojAASJlsFbgFLxYiCjsY6QI3y9-2BLT3-2BgU2yiD374THnlD30te42K-2BVrGyCA3u-2FzTortlE3YADEuPqNhkEUVCNY1PfC0M0sIl8dmhvmd9E08lq5JgEv4epjsAykIKDtzJOLZly4Aw90-3D">a </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPBxnHMU9QMICZ4NjuSVxEvKcjJlLbN-2B0ooWifXyHzVNzwrdLx65qvp3WpK-2FGUUByIW01I9beWr3XzptQiQKjo2K9Dc2UVoCxjjFC8wCwDNBAsV-2BsWn98ig-2B2C0nd4nFTRg-3D-3DT91p\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92Ymff6j-2FXhReyTStf6i-2FiQCrFrp0U-2BxBiucSWzcrjU9lr2CZdN-2BVibXXFu6MmEH6Z7bN-2Bq3DzDMHeTM5YGYMHkMJo00ulN-2BV906B3p95NnJXoJXAncegHE7zZdWyMZhby2XxYMYOse6tEXLFVjSD6xDV1bg1egKFnJko9PgRddBcuvyBj6-2BjFXA64XMRda-2FwIPgZgOnPsgjjxLBtQ1g7UnaAOVScNhw8CqTEn3J2n89-2FhqNqBoCzTGykmFAHX8o8DVd56QsnDlYPLflzBK8-2Fu6AbI-3D">60 Minutes</a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPBxnHMU9QMICZ4NjuSVxEvKcjJlLbN-2B0ooWifXyHzVNzwrdLx65qvp3WpK-2FGUUByIW01I9beWr3XzptQiQKjo2K9Dc2UVoCxjjFC8wCwDNBAsV-2BsWn98ig-2B2C0nd4nFTRg-3D-3DyuVH\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92Ymff6j-2FXhReyTStf6i-2FiQCrFrp0U-2BxBiucSWzcrjU9lr2CZdN-2BVibXXFu6MmEH6Z7bHPsDLBgr4-2BATzsV3rTQ-2FxZuhItA-2BpIUKAoKYkHirUM8pD4jUaj2ho1GoHRJhq960nErqYH85Z35ngoBBkxtj69Y4ltCHn-2FOvX2UQmIPO7S8-2FNJyxLzXjgvGlwByv0ICmJdKntYA8xxoQI0BiiwqujoGQ3O9v4joyfBcJ87ta7sIZJWrRm1Rxx-2BMg-2F0tQMMrfng7U-2FC78mvBJnissMDLG-2B4-3D"> correspondent</a>, to Architectural Digest. In November, Whitaker and his team visited the cathedral and were the first crew from the United States to enter the structure since its refurbishment. "It was humbling," Whitaker said. "A true privilege to be inside this 860-year-old cathedral, restored to its glory." Nearly 250 firms, specializing in fields such as metal work, carpentry and stained glass, played a role in the restoration. A total of 2,000 dedicated artisans were employed in the project. Although much of the wooden roof was destroyed in the fire, along with the cathedral's spire, the main structure was unharmed -- including the bell towers and rose windows. Restoration of the cathedral involved stabilization of the cathedral's exterior, cleaning of walls and statues, repair of paintings damaged by smoke and water, re-creation of the original oak roof structure, and rebuilding of the spire. To complete the work, numerous oak trees were felled, the tallest being 88 feet. The 8,000 organ pipes in France's largest instrument were cleaned and retuned. A total of 1,500 solid oak pews were crafted, and 1,300 cubic meters of stone were replaced. CNN cameraman Mark Esplin recalls that there was still a "huge hole in the ceiling" when he toured the site in 2019, adding, "You could see right up to the sky." The hole had been created when the cathedral's spire burned and toppled to the ground. Today, the octagonal base of a new 315-foot spire fills the hole in the ceiling. The spire is almost identical to the one designed in the 19th century by architect Eugène Viollet-le-Duc. One year ago, "there was an absolute forest of scaffolding inside the cathedral -- it weighed 600 tons," said Whitaker. "Now, all of that is gone, and the interior is filled with light. It's shining." The central nave of the cathedral is finally uncluttered, and its magnificent columns soar to the ceiling. The walls have been stripped of centuries of dust and grime, and they appear to be brand new. "It's a wonder," said Phillipe Jost, the head of the rebuilding effort, to CNN. "Even for us who are very often in the cathedral, it doesn't get old, it gets more beautiful every day." With treasures to be found throughout the sacred landmark, there is "a Sistine Chapel effect," said Jost. Some residents of Paris have hailed the return of the statue of the Virgin Mary to Notre Dame as "miraculous." Since the name Notre Dame means "Our Lady," referring to the Virgin Mary, this statue is considered to be the symbolic heart of the cathedral. Somehow spared in the fire, the statue was recently returned to the cathedral in an evening procession attended by hundreds. Restoring Notre Dame has cost an estimated $737 million, according to "Rebuilding Notre Dame de Paris," the public body headed by Jost. Overall, $891 million were raised in donations from 340,000 donors in 150 countries. The extra funds will be used to restore other monuments. More on this story can be found at these links: <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPB9FkExImcpfOmULVUwwLB48RP5jFaEGQR02ZxHLBRdsEIfhrxUwfKsw51oMbt-2BQQfvXLJxnCQSokwdiatb5cJENVqelb-2B-2F68SY4JlZOoEZS187ISkTW-2BrA3oBhq266LsF8oGz9h9G3WuHoCrEZaD4XhGPUIefNMCNTtsP1eE3cdnRtcx7ZqbiOtUE-2BLdecJxUTqo8r51EBKGB3WnElPaVPIr9JU22CJKZFl8zHdCagApQez\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92Ymff6j-2FXhReyTStf6i-2FiQCrFrp0U-2BxBiucSWzcrjU9lr2CZdN-2BVibXXFu6MmEH6Z7bNWXukWwKPPVJWS0Z9w4jIfMfrSsTokTFqim38KzZuyV4oiVrjEqVIpDhSx5L125jzxzqU1WxyMhcI-2BUN9qbgIzUS5Qvz0kJ68lnAKdYiHpIxbXs86EiZfgifRORsR-2BguQhrndKfF488kEzw5isSLBaCe09Xfa-2FGfQYZwwvwzNnxLut7C5fiDyPyr78TFIqpooEfL-2BUh7hdZCIkOB3UbNt4-3D">Notre Dame Reopening: Inside the Cathedral for the First Time Since the Fire. </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPB9FkExImcpfOmULVUwwLB48RP5jFaEGQR02ZxHLBRdsEIfhrxUwfKsw51oMbt-2BQQfvXLJxnCQSokwdiatb5cJENVqelb-2B-2F68SY4JlZOoEZS187ISkTW-2BrA3oBhq266LsF8oGz9h9G3WuHoCrEZaD4XhGPUIefNMCNTtsP1eE3cdnRtcx7ZqbiOtUE-2BLdecJxUTqo8r51EBKGB3WnElPaVPIr9JU22CJKZFl8zHdCagAVdji\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92Ymff6j-2FXhReyTStf6i-2FiQCrFrp0U-2BxBiucSWzcrjU9lr2CZdN-2BVibXXFu6MmEH6Z7bDF52yEfa8A-2BkxoB33-2BGJYzKdpHhxBuP7SwSeXcYia7Qs9LAV3F1SZECSTHAJ6JkEGaxPCfKJpd3UkBfLKu50vmumuFn6WD20wFgpqfIJll7g-2FJ1MqF9D5ii49vv1E-2BgfL3eDtwyfWDHJFuA7ETjB7OsR59LDS-2Bc1aY-2BbSH-2BSVDMtK25OSEhPOLQ3x-2ByN-2FED3m7pcbyqe2k1Zg0WK3yDd-2F0-3D">Architectural Digest</a> <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPKy3TtZJUNBApOSK1-2FQMe4GWhiOFSxyqjQO4IApGtdJzqBROYbiL3Kd2E-2Fsaor6mniFMJ8n4Vx1bBjYBpyMLKNAdAqPtTUgPCeAz7i1pSNnbdgSB\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92Ymff6j-2FXhReyTStf6i-2FiQCrFrp0U-2BxBiucSWzcrjU9lr2CZdN-2BVibXXFu6MmEH6Z7bO18o4Z8oFvJ7rrWmhk0XfKkZf-2FfBnAWsXBYjhac-2BH0aYOveCbfDYQPDMwdpgzGDG8lQOgrLKhG-2BPo-2F5tLVR-2FCOt7SgQv9Q5pO2LynyGKXJUOSdFk2aTH9QC-2FQZwR0QhX3pU798hazz9h8M8IaLOKbG8PkBM-2BHZtumOBLuw98MkL1WesPh-2BN0MOM13G1zWgBbWRZC-2Fj9rMFDn6IC3mNo6q8-3D">Notre Dame Is Back -- But Not Quite as You Knew Her. CNN</a> Applying the News Story Use the reopening of Notre Dame to reflect on your own experiences of loss, recovery and rebuilding. Discuss the importance of your home church in your practice of the Christian faith. Consider what you might do to preserve your church building for future generations. The Big Questions 1. When, if ever, have you been challenged to recover from a devastating event, such as a natural disaster, a divorce or the loss of a family member or friend? How did you do it, and how was your life different after your recovery? 2. What role does the Christian faith play in rebuilding? What spiritual practices or activities have been helpful to you? 3. How important is your home church to your practice of the faith? What meaning or significance does your church building contain? 4. Some people see the statue of the Virgin Mary as the symbolic heart of the Notre Dame Cathedral. What do you see as the symbolic heart of your church? How would you feel if it were lost, and why? 5. Notre Dame is a Paris landmark, but also a place of worship. What goes on in Notre Dame, and in your home church, that is important to you, and why? What value do such buildings have to the larger community? What would you do to preserve such a building for future generations? Be specific. Confronting the News With Scripture and Hope Here are some Bible verses to guide your discussion: Isaiah 56:7 [Thus says the LORD] ... for my house shall be called a house of prayer for all peoples. (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzx8fPDsj5S5hW7hBewUShLx3MTqQ9rQK1wFCmT7KQ3hfHUiOkUe7jZSqvG-2BxD6ywrYjUkh\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92Ymff6j-2FXhReyTStf6i-2FiQCrFrp0U-2BxBiucSWzcrjU9lr2CZdN-2BVibXXFu6MmEH6Z7bBglNrZ-2BFc2IzULJZ1A-2FdH6jUskVCImsikjZC1jw2Xo8yMzJvkdDhr9nqK8EEBLMvKNlABRKPf-2B8xen9WIc9RzLJO4O2MLDFONwjeaQ63SgQ94TCKg8BsLJhK6M6J3447TqgDwK3fArHScAoaIL4Qn4uVI5Jur9WI3s0iPesKu4TI00DCRf3oiTo3Vau8z8LSyB4Ta-2BHtG5EYX7kB5wpbvY-3D">Isaiah 56:1-8.</a>) The 56th chapter of the book of the prophet Isaiah speaks of God's covenant being extended, for the first time, beyond the people of Israel. "Happy is the mortal who does this," said Isaiah, "the one who holds it fast, who keeps the Sabbath, not profaning it, and refrains from doing any evil" (v. 2). Any mortal who keeps the Sabbath and refrains from evil can now be part of God's covenant community, including foreigners and eunuchs (v. 3). This insight by Isaiah was revolutionary, because the purity code of Deuteronomy had excluded these categories of people. But Isaiah offered a new vision of community, one in which all people who honor the Lord in their actions are to be included. Speaking through Isaiah, God said, "To the eunuchs who keep my Sabbaths, who choose the things that please me and hold fast my covenant, ... I will give them an everlasting name that shall not be cut off" (vv. 4-5). The tragedy of the eunuch was that he was cut off, literally -- no chance of having children to carry on his name. But now, if the eunuch was faithful, God would give him an everlasting name. "And the foreigners who join themselves to the LORD, to minister to him," says Isaiah, "these I will bring to my holy mountain, and make them joyful in my house of prayer" (vv. 6–7). Previously excluded people are now included, because they honor God in their actions and relationships. They are accepted because God wants to be worshiped in "a house of prayer for all peoples." Old Testament scholar Brevard Childs says that this verse "removes any doubt that God's purpose for his house is directed to all peoples without restriction." God's house is now open to everyone who keeps the Sabbath and holds fast to the covenant. <blockquote> Questions: In what ways does the prophet Isaiah rebuild the purity code of the Israelites? Who is now included in God's "house of prayer"? What does this message challenge you to work on in your own community of faith? </blockquote> Haggai 1:14-15 And the LORD stirred up the spirit of Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel, governor of Judah, and the spirit of Joshua son of Jehozadak, the high priest, and the spirit of all the remnant of the people, and they came and worked on the house of the LORD of hosts, their God, on the twenty-fourth day of the month, in the sixth month. (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxOA1k4HTQRIUT7STvSavT2LNHjtMNCLuBjoFMEIQLc2-2F4Ij71GvUyKC-2BIF391eHjz67QxO7-2Btufw3pG33BlPh6Q-3D-3Da4hI\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92Ymff6j-2FXhReyTStf6i-2FiQCrFrp0U-2BxBiucSWzcrjU9lr2CZdN-2BVibXXFu6MmEH6Z7bF4VI8r13cn-2Bl7To-2FbwQjIpoWuhT0ezQD6ccLR3u-2BMeVp8MoZxBcGDSSgQpjOliO6vULdTDXb-2FoXueoSmGoRn0sO369uiQQxHELA8QFo8KiQspS-2BEUOjk43klopgoTsxtoMbJUtYC4EYqYuY3Ic-2BD9bSYDRAEbcbw1DMoiIlK-2Bm-2F38QsNLd5Pfu7lkzwr95O9ey2ymzGd9mg1ctFyc0jtWs-3D">Haggai 1:14 - 2:9.</a>) The prophet Haggai focuses on the rebuilding of the temple after the exile in Babylon, and the book begins with God commanding the governor of Judah and the high priest to begin work on the structure. The project was a top priority since the temple was Israel's primary place of worship and sacrifice, and was the spot where God was believed to be present. Haggai says that "the LORD stirred up the spirit" of the governor, the high priest and the remnant of the people of Israel, and "they came and worked on the house of the LORD." God asked them, "Who is left among you who saw this house in its former glory? How does it look to you now?" (2:3). At this point, the rebuilt temple was nothing more than a foundation. In spite of this unimpressive sight, God tells the people and their leaders to "take courage ... for I am with you ... according to the promise that I made you when you came out of Egypt. My spirit abides among you; do not fear" (2:4-5). God promises to "fill this house with splendor" (2:7) -- making it more glorious than the temple of Solomon -- and "in this place I will give prosperity, says the LORD" (2:9). The word translated "prosperity" is shalom, which means peace, harmony, wholeness and completeness. Shalom "includes restoration of health, cessation of hostilities, and enrichment of individual and community life, prosperity in the richest sense of the term," writes Old Testament professor W. Eugene March. God "not only assured the people that the Temple would be made splendid, but also that the ill health of the community, its economic weakness, its vulnerability, would be replaced by God's 'peace.'" <blockquote> Questions: What does it feel like to have your spirit "stirred up" by God, after a personal loss? What, if anything, did you do to recover and rebuild? When, if ever, have you felt God working to give you peace, harmony, wholeness or completeness? </blockquote> Matthew 21:12-13 Then Jesus entered the temple and drove out all who were selling and buying in the temple, and he overturned the tables of the money changers and the seats of those who sold doves. He said to them, "It is written, 'My house shall be called a house of prayer,' but you are making it a den of robbers." (No context needed.) Matthew is concerned with placing Jesus in the story of God's saving work, which began in Genesis and continued through the Hebrew Scriptures. He seems to be presenting Jesus as a second Moses, giving new laws and teachings to Israel and to the world. After Jesus enters Jerusalem on a donkey and colt, he cleanses the temple. He does this because he is upset that God's "house of prayer" (a quotation of Isaiah 56:7) has become "a den of robbers" (a quotation of Jeremiah 7:11). Jesus is presenting himself as a prophet to the people, in addition to being a new lawgiver. He is also passing judgment on the temple and presenting himself as the place in which God is now most fully present in the world. <blockquote> Questions: How has Jesus been involved in the work of recovery and restoration in your life? Where have you seen him playing a disruptive role? When is the presence of Jesus experienced most powerfully in the life of your congregation? What does your church building do to help you feel Christ's presence, if anything? </blockquote> Ephesians 2:21 [In Christ] the whole structure is joined together and grows into a holy temple in the Lord. (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzx9vldlDvqp-2B7wfJkKn-2B61s-2BtnASWAfe6bfVQhSd6Pgq7444BGyVDTbkca-2Bua0baC0TzjP\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92Ymff6j-2FXhReyTStf6i-2FiQCrFrp0U-2BxBiucSWzcrjU9lr2CZdN-2BVibXXFu6MmEH6Z7bEpMJuOtODsXHymQzJzxklnftuDN2C-2BB7yTEZul4WCGzlYx2OeJqXl8wqk700VX6Ges3ikyIzNlAM90C3iCMkCoQeqXKg3sDcUcE8OPGsJ3100-2F2sjF-2BKVy7E7vha8Dl-2FmOtMwdgGSkBYZITK55hS73coLggVXwkJoA3cbRfiAXwt-2B9-2BNq0yJWVex2tceER-2BfcLrV-2BEzb8juJXMTRKe6O4Y-3D">Ephesians 2:19-22</a>.) In his letter to the Ephesians, the apostle Paul was writing to the people of Ephesus, a city in Asia Minor. They knew a lot about building temples, since they lived in a city that contained the Greek temple of Artemis, which was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. But Paul encouraged them to build another kind of temple, one that was made of human beings. He said, you are "members of the household of God, built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the cornerstone" (vv. 19-20). Paul is saying that God wants to make his home in a new kind of temple, one that is built of living stones like ourselves. Together, we are the walls and floors and roof of this house of God. But in order for us to keep from falling over, we have to be built on a foundation of apostles and prophets, with a cornerstone that is none other than Jesus himself. It is in Christ that "the whole structure is joined together and grows into a holy temple in the Lord." When we stand together on Jesus the cornerstone, we can be the holy temple that God wants us to be. <blockquote> Questions: How is your congregation a "holy temple," built on the solid foundation of apostles, prophets and Jesus? What do you do to stay connected to your fellow living stones? What role does your church building play in the vitality of your "household of God"? </blockquote> For Further Discussion 1. TWW Team Member Henry Brinton has written a novel, <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPGRAfabCXRFNA5kzk67Eh1oj67qF5-2B9x69bzWEczpREHO1Wyfrkjkg1sOAuhUDoOS0VBOMI7vqWV1xHtSQx9TNg-3D29Tf\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92Ymff6j-2FXhReyTStf6i-2FiQCrFrp0U-2BxBiucSWzcrjU9lr2CZdN-2BVibXXFu6MmEH6Z7bCNVkngp3GFNf5NStp7Q-2F55ZpL-2Bb7x7SgHN3pWZ8jNR-2BWxv7DQAQ0pu6-2BI6nf7ZlqBPsbECNjPGUBjm4295Brz9uj0DnvQRda13Xw-2BqVpgp9u55qeyXF3sS06J8g2PA8U6gNUED3nRrIgdXHoq0n6aceryPXpv2UmDktmEY5MywIsIoxwsApwKgQJow6Qsw6vnG0iJigpnfs4WpYUxUbNn0-3D">City of Peace</a>, in which Pastor Harley Camden describes Riverside Methodist Church in this way: "Running his fingers along the backs of the wooden pews, he imagined that the space had been the site of countless milestones over the course of a century and a quarter -- dedications, baptisms, weddings, funerals. Anguished prayers had been said here, rousing sermons had been preached, lives had been changed. Generations of African Americans, in particular, had looked up at the Jesus in the stained glass and found strength to live with faith and dignity in a segregated society." What church buildings have evoked similar feelings for you? Which memories are especially important to you? 2. Notre Dame is "scarred and wounded but transformed," <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPKy3TtZJUNBApOSK1-2FQMe4GWhiOFSxyqjQO4IApGtdJzqBROYbiL3Kd2E-2Fsaor6mniFMJ8n4Vx1bBjYBpyMLKNAdAqPtTUgPCeAz7i1pSNnbSrPH\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92Ymff6j-2FXhReyTStf6i-2FiQCrFrp0U-2BxBiucSWzcrjU9lr2CZdN-2BVibXXFu6MmEH6Z7bL4mmn-2BLwQtl3EvYzU5pmgLRGjbl4B0vBj9-2BvfxKjXwCgOmob8gYcl6RCcV1KbSf93PU3ruMQRCPg6aCt7vqhoSK4ud1cF9v-2FkBsIrgBFPKoNn5txgUMGbB-2B-2Bx4rCZacGwVoTVy6S6MALuNjdr6J655eJnkwGFb8xVM1Z-2FpapumgYExnO0tXyVSyyCmGY4v8fqkb8lJlk7zjGKnruLUPEq8-3D">according to </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPKy3TtZJUNBApOSK1-2FQMe4GWhiOFSxyqjQO4IApGtdJzqBROYbiL3Kd2E-2Fsaor6mniFMJ8n4Vx1bBjYBpyMLKNAdAqPtTUgPCeAz7i1pSNnbITtS\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92Ymff6j-2FXhReyTStf6i-2FiQCrFrp0U-2BxBiucSWzcrjU9lr2CZdN-2BVibXXFu6MmEH6Z7bIIPvDDluCn8RzXIZVNdYR3dsBtqC9-2BK-2FNpUulLzqiXkIkDcd-2FUEpHFjYcF5rkGy7a4TyKn6HsMUekopHbP0Qx9CV32a2WLphj8hnIt8bHSUuAWvnL5diIwNlkb4ibUXLOJfV-2FXhzmEh1ruBKzg92FZ1v2KChCBiIi89ikEfhHwwskFJyjkPneoB7GDIk4Wc22LWbW-2F1BSwMVw-2FtOOTSWQ0-3D">CNN</a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPKy3TtZJUNBApOSK1-2FQMe4GWhiOFSxyqjQO4IApGtdJzqBROYbiL3Kd2E-2Fsaor6mniFMJ8n4Vx1bBjYBpyMLKNAdAqPtTUgPCeAz7i1pSNnbX82U\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92Ymff6j-2FXhReyTStf6i-2FiQCrFrp0U-2BxBiucSWzcrjU9lr2CZdN-2BVibXXFu6MmEH6Z7bFHSFF5bi6SzwUipNeIwTJLCYa5oJaAHTEge-2FlzqrnpQ40DH-2FwUAiKRfRrP8AoDPAi7jXeB2Ld7RC-2F5LNXhVyj2LsFr3EJotubYH2cXM-2Fv5F2VgHR2hnJzcuVSISjsANhGvzIb1oEGK-2BwSjewyp-2BmkjfFTG35MU2gnY2e8Dq05g8hBKW8WKtE8OJrt8fHMyuj3mTVlBjSM9t2lgHP69L1tI-3D">.</a> How is this an appropriate description of individual Christians, as well as of this cathedral? In what ways have you been scarred and wounded, but transformed by God? How has this impacted your testimony to others? 3. Just as there is a core to the Christian religion, writes TWW Team Member Bill Tammeus, "so there is a core to Notre Dame. That centrality, at least viewed from the outside, is the big-boned, imposing presence that has stood for the faith's core, even as the city around the cathedral changed in breathtaking ways." How has your church building "stood for the faith's core"? What can you do to preserve its witness, even as the world around it changes? 4. "Thousands of churches close every year," <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPCHqQGefcQySWH-2Bid1tRnzbiIzNDePG9r2QOu-2FCwG0GEa5jkW3seu2mKrKuDLDZzgn13jEBjMdZ9sPuuMqOhP0dBo5rgDjZXyyaNsowENuQ-2BQqhHr4itpKXtwZejO3wlk2qoZ35RJH5eaUmieCzf5ZI-3D64MJ\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92Ymff6j-2FXhReyTStf6i-2FiQCrFrp0U-2BxBiucSWzcrjU9lr2CZdN-2BVibXXFu6MmEH6Z7bJLmVU7QJou0tDIIgdpOBltfPZPtkJTI92VGcc-2FZTB90FokGwW0fUXVTiGgosWd08YC1OoPgPEqq5kVr1uQWq-2F2Dw17ZGSCM8sXSCu5LFpCRhNFRh3LCbPvJ-2FlrU0PNI152IGElmCI5brWHLgsVB6yb2nmo8XST925FNPrjtFVEHcnDsRQoN7IbkSA9mJr995eyKFtKLXNb14EXcQmd2IuY-3D">reports </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPCHqQGefcQySWH-2Bid1tRnzbiIzNDePG9r2QOu-2FCwG0GEa5jkW3seu2mKrKuDLDZzgn13jEBjMdZ9sPuuMqOhP0dBo5rgDjZXyyaNsowENuQ-2BQqhHr4itpKXtwZejO3wlk2qoZ35RJH5eaUmieCzf5ZI-3DS2tJ\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92Ymff6j-2FXhReyTStf6i-2FiQCrFrp0U-2BxBiucSWzcrjU9lr2CZdN-2BVibXXFu6MmEH6Z7bHTFejyA8ZA-2FCQrRLagiuQDucrKOKqywBWUIe9QADZ1besSYYy8Vh3OEKaLPwYqvAHTDCub5GJfpnr8JFQc3wQcqHzpzWVP7mxdUE2U4f2qpw-2FXceHhQMhgwb910FOqjOkmfrw88r6rxvpoHh7rVdeHIWpm2kr6HbXgOvvuOldi1hXCJMQWhg8-2FBOUGSU4O1yNLOGzmY-2Bp3cRGlFhrIE6YY-3D">Religion News Service</a>. "What will happen to their buildings?" Not every church building can or should be repaired and restored. When should a church building be sold or torn down? How can God's will be done at such a time? What advice would you give to a congregation faced with such a decision? Responding to the News Take a careful look at your church building, and assess what needs to be restored or renovated. Focus on the elements of the building that are central to the practice of the Christian faith. Talk with fellow church members about an action you can take together, to preserve or improve your building as a center for ministry and mission. Prayer We thank you, Lord, for the effort put into restoring buildings in which Christ is honored and the faith is practiced. Help us to build our lives on the foundation of prophets and apostles, keeping Jesus as our cornerstone. Amen. 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