'Good Morning America's James Longman explores Notre Dame Cathedral's new spire ahead of anticipated reopening

PARIS, FRANCE: On the December 22 episode of 'Good Morning America,' James Longman, a foreign correspondent, covered the ongoing reconstruction efforts at the historic Notre Dame Cathedral in France.

On April 15, 2019, a segment of the medieval Catholic edifice experienced a devastating fire. The nineteenth-century spire, situated on the structure, crumbled into the church during the incident, leading to the indefinite closure of the cathedral.

Four years later, Longman found himself standing atop a recently constructed spire, contemplating the restoration journey. This reflection occurred one year before the anticipated reopening of the cathedral, scheduled for December 8, 2024.

James Longman witnesses the 'rebirth' of the cathedral

"Last time I came to Notre Dame, they were securing the building with the risk of falling down. Now it's the restoration phase, and they're taking us up to the spire," noted Longman.

After the old carpentry was destroyed, new wooden beams and renovated stonework have come up to take its place.

Noting the substantial progress, Longman stated, "When the spire initially crumbled down into the church on fire, they sent shockwaves all over the world. And it was a trauma for France, but it's back now, standing tall over the city. It's a rebirth."

The restoration of the edifice extends beyond its exterior; significant renovations have also been undertaken within the interior.

The collaboration between American and French carpenters

Phillip Jost, the leader of the restoration efforts for Notre Dame, shared with Longman the collaborative efforts between the teams to reinstate the monument to its former glory.

They employed ancient techniques to meticulously reconstruct the wooden framework of the roof and spire.

The efforts have borne good results, as Jost stated, "I feel very happy, very proud. Proud for all of the companions, all the workers, who work with enthusiasm."

How many workers are involved in the restoration process of the Notre Dame Cathedral?

Longman reported that a dedicated workforce of 2000 specialists has joined forces to meet the renovation deadline. This skilled team comprises joiners, carpenters, stone masons, artists, and metalworkers, all diligently working around the clock to restore Notre Dame.

The collective endeavors have yielded cleaned and repaired rose-stained glass windows, revitalized artwork, and a fully restored roof.

Stepping onto the reconstructed altar, Longman prompted viewers to recall the aftermath of the blaze, vividly illustrated by photographs depicting an unscathed cross amidst the charred debris that once filled the room.

"Now look at it. The cross is back up waiting to be unveiled," he stated.