Caroline de Sury

After publishing the results of the General Estates on Religious Heritage project, French bishops navigate the restoration of historic churches not only to help preserve crumbling architectural pearls but also draw people closer to faith.

After Notre Dame Cathedral’s splendid reopening, the attention of Paris Catholics turned to the nearby Church of Notre Dame de Boulogne Jan. 12 as it was solemnly elevated to the rank of minor basilica, following a decree from Pope Francis, signed June 29.

With places fully booked at Paris’ iconic cathedral for months ahead, Notre Dame is not only back to its former glory but also to its full concert schedule.