The Archbishop of Wales has joined with the Archbishops of Canterbury and York to encourage all cathedrals and churches across the United Kingdom to toll a bell for seven minutes at around 7pm this Thursday, Maundy Thursday, as a sign of solidarity with the people of France following the devastating fire that has hit the Notre Dame Cathedral.
Among the many churches taking part in Wales are St Davids Cathedral and Brecon Cathedral.
This initiative has been suggested by the British Ambassador to France, Edward Llewellyn, and it is hoped that Christian churches across Britain will take part.
The Archbishop, John Davies, said: “The tolling of bells has, for generations, been a sign of mourning for the loss of someone precious and, although Notre Dame is a building, there is also a sense in which it is a vital part of the very heartbeat of Paris.
“The damage and destruction suffered to this holy and iconic site is something, therefore, which it feels quite proper for us to mourn. In doing so, we will also be expressing our hope that, from the ashes, will rise a building restored and renewed for its life’s purpose, to proclaim to the world the Good News of Christ."
He added: "Having been a parish priest for 24 years, part of that time as a Cathedral Dean, I can scarcely imagine how the destruction of so much Notre Dame de Paris will impact on the soul of the people of both Paris and France and beyond. An icon of faith, a symbol of Christ’s love and presence among them has, in this most holy week of the Christian year, been fatally wounded.
"But 850 years of faith, connection and history cannot be destroyed by one of earth’s elements, fire. In signalling my profound sorrow to my brothers and sisters of the community of Notre Dame, I express the hope that, from the ashes of this wonderful building, there will emerge a renewal of souls and a refreshed determination to proclaim the new life of the Gospel of the Risen Christ whilst mourning the loss of so much earthly treasure."