With the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris engulfed in flames Monday, Catholic politicians reacted to the devastating live video with shock and sadness.
Here's a sampling of their reactions:
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif.:
".@NotreDameParis has stood as a beating heart of religion & culture for centuries, inspiring all who have visited her. The footage of today’s fire is nothing short of heartbreaking. To the people of Paris & France: know that America stands with you."
Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie:
"So fortunate to have visited Notre Dame with my entire family and a dear friend a few years ago. So heartbreaking to imagine the destruction and the loss of history that will never be able to be replaced. What an enormous and unthinkable tragedy."
Former Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal:
"Our hearts are breaking to see Notre Dame burning - especially during Holy Week. Let us pray nobody was hurt, and that the rebuilding can begin as soon as the flames are out."
Rep. Ruben Gallego, D-Ariz.:
"Heartbreaking. My thoughts are with the people of Paris today. Praying for everyone's safety."
Rep. Jim McGovern, D-Mass.:
"What a terrible tragedy. Lisa & I visited many years ago & were in awe. #NotreDame is an incredible place for Catholics, people of faith & indeed all people. Our prayers are with the people of Paris & @franceintheus."
Rep. John Delaney, D-Md.:
"It's absolutely devastating to watch Notre Dame burn in real time. America's hearts are with France. #NotreDameFire"
Rep. Pete King, R-N.Y.:
"Tragic to see burning and destruction of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris."
Former President Barack Obama, who is a Christian but does not follow the Catholic religion, also weighed in:
"Notre Dame is one of the world’s great treasures, and we’re thinking of the people of France in your time of grief. It’s in our nature to mourn when we see history lost – but it’s also in our nature to rebuild for tomorrow, as strong as we can."
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