WWII vets join French president at Mass to mark liberation of Paris

Published: 2004-08-27

PARIS (CNS) -- World War II veterans who helped liberate Paris 60 years ago joined French President Jacques Chirac at a commemorative Mass at Notre Dame Cathedral. Church leaders from the United States, England, Canada and Germany concelebrated the Aug. 26 Mass with Paris Cardinal Jean-Marie Lustiger. In his homily, Cardinal Lustiger urged those in attendance not to forget that France's hard-fought freedom has yet to be shared by everyone. "As Europe builds itself as a unified entity, people all over the world are fighting for their liberty and are calling on freed people for help," the cardinal said. At a time of growing economic disparity, the Paris cardinal asked if today "people are still worthy of the freedom others fought for." Veterans, some with sports jackets clad with medals and others carrying French flags, filled the pews. Sixty years ago, many were fighting in the streets of Paris.

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