It's an interesting opportunity for reassessment. Massive cathedrals and other signs of power, are not what faith ought to be about. To my mind, faith ought to be about compassion, not power. But on the other hand, those cathedrals are priceless works of art and symbols of the identity of peoples. I think these beautiful edifices ought to be preserved and used, but I don't know how. To my mind, this world will be lessened if Notre Dame Cathedral is not rebuilt. But to me, Notre Dame is an amazing work of art, not an expression of my faith. And I'm saying as a Catholic, that this massive cathedral is no longer a valid expression of my faith. If it is preserved, it should be preserved for its artistic value, not for its religious value. I reject the religion that it once expressed, while I still see it priceless as a work of art. Same with Sacre Coeur, and same with Mont St. Michel. These are gorgeous buildings and I am so glad I had the opportunity to visit them, but they are not an expression of my religious faith. I love to visit palaces, too, but I am not a monarchist.
-Joe-