19 April 2019 — 0401 mdt
Tents, tools, cathedrals, and humility
What ignited the fire that destroyed the Notre Dame cathedral’s roof, attic, and spire? Various news outlets now report that officials think an electrical short, possibly from a temporary elevator, may have started the blaze. Other causes are possible, of course, including arson, and at this point, nothing is being ruled out.
I find myself wondering whether the artisans performing the repairs that required the scaffolding and elevators were contractually obligated to use non-sparking and anti-static tools and equipment, and required to observe special protocols for using torches and heaters. The tinder dry, highly flammable, environment certainly demanded such precautions, especially since the wooden structure was not protected with a sprinkler system.
Meanwhile, Catholics who attended church there need a new place to pray:
Since the cathedral will be closed to the public for years, the rector of the Catholic parish that worships there has proposed building a temporary structure on the plaza in front of the gothic-era landmark. City authorities gave their approval on Thursday “subject to technical restraints”.
“The rector has no cathedral for the moment … but I’m going to try to invent something,” Bishop Patrick Chauvet said.
I have a suggestion, Biship Chauvet. Insofar as I know, only high churchmen with champagne tastes frown on humble houses of worship. Ergo, get thee down to Georgia or Alabama, and buy a second-hand revival tent to keep your parishioners dry while the big building is repaired. Keep a few fire extinguishers handy, ban smoking, don’t light the candles, douse the incense, make music with guitars and a honky-tonk piano, and practice religion with a little old time humility.