Basilica In Minneapolis To Hold Mass For Notre Dame Cathedral

MINNEAPOLIS — The Basilica of Saint Mary in Minneapolis will hold a special Mass for the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris after the centuries-old church was gutted by a massive fire Monday.

"The Basilica of Saint Mary stands in prayer and support with the Notre Dame Cathedral community and the city of Paris," the Minneapolis parish said in a statement.

"We pray for the safety of the first responders working to manage the fire. During this Holy week, Catholics around the world are saddened by the destruction of the iconic cathedral. The loss of precious relics, irreplaceable art, striking architecture, rich history and culture, are simply devastating."

The Basilica invites local Catholics to join them in prayer "and to share a message to the people of Paris." A book of messages will be placed on the Altar of the Sacred Heart in the Basilica, and it will be sent to the Archbishop of Paris.

The Mass will take place Tuesday, April 16 at 12 p.m. in the Saint Joseph Chapel on the Basilica's ground level.

The Mass will be followed by a rosary to "Our Lady of Paris."