Notre-Dame Reopens Amid French Political Turmoil

After a five-year restoration following a devastating fire, Paris's iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral is set to reopen, marking a significant cultural and historical moment. The reopening will be celebrated with high-security ceremonies featuring religious rituals and performances by international artists. US President-elect Donald Trump, along with 50 other world leaders, will attend the event, highlighting its global importance. This occasion coincides with a political crisis in France, as Prime Minister Michel Barnier faces a no-confidence vote following his controversial use of a constitutional mechanism to pass a social security bill. Meanwhile, the reopening weekend will include an inaugural Mass and a 'fraternal buffet' for the needy, underscoring themes of renewal and community. The restoration has been a massive collaborative effort to preserve the Gothic cathedral's heritage while updating its safety measures.