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SALT LAKE CITY — The world watched in collective horror as a massive fire swept through the Notre Dame Cathedral Monday.
A few days later, President Russell M. Nelson, leader of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, wrote Pope Francis a letter of sympathy and expressed "profound sadness" at the damage done to the "sacred structure," according to a news release from the church.
The cathedral is not only an architectural and historical treasure that the world has enjoyed since the 12th century, but is also a symbol laden with significance for the Catholic church — though it is currently owned by the French state.
In his letter, President Nelson told the pope that "his thoughts immediately went to him and the many beloved friends in the Catholic faith." He was "heartbroken by the tragedy to such an ageless symbol of faith," the release reads.
The man faithful members of the church believe to be prophet said he prays Notre Dame will rise again in "newness of life."
Just a month and a half prior, President Nelson met with the pope in a historic coming together — the first such meeting of its kind between the two religious leaders. The meeting took place shortly before the dedication of the Rome, Italy, temple.
The church's European governing body also expressed sympathy to the archbishop of Paris while church apostles President M. Russell Ballard and Elder Ronald A. Rasband penned another letter of condolence to Bishop Oscar A. Solis who leads the Diocese of Salt Lake City.
