Churches urged to ring out in sympathy

Church of Scotland congregations are being urged to ring their bells for seven minutes in a show of solidarity and sympathy with France.

Rt Rev Susan Brown, Moderator of the General Assembly, made the plea following the fire at Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris on Monday.

She encouraged churches and cathedrals to ring their bells at 7pm today, which is around the time fire broke out at the Gothic building.

Mrs Brown said: “The world has been shocked and saddened by the devastating fire at Notre Dame Cathedral. The reaction is so great because the church is more than just a building.

“Many buildings, as well as being worship spaces, are a celebration of the gifts of stone masons, carpenters, glass makers, artists and musicians. They also house history and Notre Dame is one such church.

“In sympathy and solidarity with the people of Paris, I would encourage our churches and cathedrals, where possible, to ring their bells at 7pm on Thursday for seven minutes.”

Most of the roof was destroyed,causingthesteeple to collapse, but French President Emmanuel Macron has promised that Notre Dame will be rebuilt within five years.