"The cathedral can be reborn from the ashes, like a phoenix," commented restoration architect Philippe Villeneuve, who envisioned a weathervane bird with "wings of fire" on top of the cathedral spire.

That the restoration work was finished on time despite a six-month, Covid-related delay is mostly due to Jost's rigorous managing skills, which some have attributed to his military background.

From the ashes of defeat, they built a party rooted ... The next year must be a period of rebuilding and restoration. The focus should be on strengthening internal bonds, engaging all voices ...