Original Source: www.leparisien.fr
On Wednesday night, the magnificent Notre-Dame de Paris will glow with a resplendent red hue, symbolizing the ongoing plight faced by Christians around the globe. This initiative, organized by Aid to the Church in Need (AED), is part of a larger movement aiming to raise awareness about religious persecution. Benoît de Blanpré, AED’s director in France, emphasizes that this illumination honors the courage of those risking their lives to practice their faith while also remembering the sacred places that have been attacked and desecrated.
As the gothic spires of Notre-Dame reach into the evening sky, the striking crimson light will resonate alongside similar displays across the world. This luminous event coincides with the upcoming reopening of the iconic cathedral on December 7 and 8. The “Red Week,” running from November 17 to 22, includes prayer vigils organized in various French cities, turning the atmosphere into one of unity and reflection amid shared struggles.
The “Red Week” is an international call to action, shining light on the millions of Christians who face oppression and cannot freely express their faith. Hundreds of churches internationally will partake, their exteriors drenched in red to symbolize the blood of martyrs. Popular sites in France such as Lourdes and numerous cathedrals will join this symbolic display, while across Europe and beyond, places like cathedrals in Germany, Spain, Austria, and the UK will also turn to red, emphasizing a collective cry for freedom of worship.
The initiative, known as “Red Week,” has been held since 2015 and seeks to bring awareness to religious persecution of Christians worldwide. Each year, numerous churches and sanctuaries illuminate their facades in red, creating a powerful visual representation of the struggles faced by many believers. This year’s event draws special attention as it coincides with the nearly completed restoration of Notre-Dame de Paris, making the illumination even more poignant.
The planned illumination of Notre-Dame de Paris in red serves as a potent reminder of the persecution faced by Christians around the world. By participating in the “Red Week,” the initiative stresses the importance of freedom of belief and solidarity among believers. As the cathedral prepares to reopen, this dual message of hope and awareness resonates, uniting cities and nations in a shared call for justice and protection for those at risk.
