Over five years ago, the world watched as disaster struck the spire of the Notre-Dame de Paris Cathedral when flames engulfed and destroyed the structure. Five years later, work is complete, and the great gothic church has now been restored. This past weekend, on the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception, the first Mass was held in the rebuilt Notre-Dame.
As a way to celebrate the occasion, a few Damien students embarked on a similar effort to build the same cathedral on a much smaller scale. Their Notre-Dame Lego build followed the same order of construction and restoration as the actual Paris landmark.
“Once I heard the news that Lego was going to come out with the Notre-Dame Cathedral Lego set I decided to jump on it. With the blessing of Theology Chair Mrs. Leonneti, we ordered it. I announced in passing to some of my juniors that I was ordering it and their eyes lit up. James Loud and Reid Mathieu and both immediately volunteered to be the senior leaders of the Lego build. Notre Dame Paris is such a key piece in our attempt to introduce students to the vast, beautiful, cultural treasure box which is the Catholic Intellectual tradition.” Mr. Gary Sullivan said, who oversaw the project.
The students met after school on most Mondays of the first semester to build the entire cathedral, which included 4,383 separate pieces. Week by week, it was timed to be completed on December 2 the same week that the real cathedral would re-open.
“During the building process of the Lego Notre-Dame Cathedral, I gained a deeper understanding of the Intricate architectural techniques employed in its construction. I discovered how these methods not only served a vital structural purpose, ensuring the stability and durability of the cathedral, but also contributed significantly to its aesthetic appeal. The harmonious blend of form and function showcased in the cathedral's design reflects the ingenuity of the architects and the profound attention to detail that went into creating this iconic masterpiece,” senior James Loud said.
All of Mr. Sullivan’s Theology classes are currently studying the Notre-Dame in preparation for these Lego builders to present their model to students as well as give an overview of the cultural, historical and theological meaning of the cathedral.
Notre-Dame de Paris Lego build team: senior James Loud, senior Reid Mathieu, junior Richard Parmar sophomore Marten Bastwrous, and sophomore Xavier Blanco