The spiritual and pastry pinnacles of Paris
Veneration of the Crown of Thorns at Notre Dame, the crystal reliquary, the Knights of the Holy Sepulchre — and Jacques Génin’s extraordinary caramel. (3 min read)
Today was awesome. It started with french breakfast at Cafe Mabillon with a former colleague. You might think we talked public service, and there was a little of that, but the conversation was mostly about the meaning of life and making the most of it. This segued nicely into my first confession in 35 years. Although my friend didn’t (expressly) give me absolution, this conversation set me up nicely for what was to follow.
More food. The restaurant at the Musee d’Orsay is one of my favourite places and I reserve it for very special occasions. This was where I farewelled my dear friends from the American University of Paris in 1993. My oldest friend and I celebrated here when we visited Paris in 1995. Given my plans for the day, I had to eat here and used the time to reflect further on the morning’s conversation. I mulled over the legitimacy of confession when one disagrees with the fundamental premise of Christianity. And whether one can rightly receive communion if a confession has not been made. These issues require earnest consideration.
Then it was time to meet my friends at Notre Dame for the big event. So, to cut to the chase. Today I kissed the crown of thorns worn by Jesus. Or, more accurately, a crystal relic containing 15 of the thorns. I also energised the crystal rosaries I am carrying for others on the relic. This was an extremely moving experience and I am filled with gratitude for it. The energy was overwhelming and, as thousands of people take their turn, it is not unlike the feeling of going before the entity.
My interior dramas about confession came to nought because communion was not offered. My fear had been that one would need to take communion before or after kissing the relic – not so. Even the protestants can kiss the thorns these days.
So, then more food with friends. Awesomely delicious pastries at Jacques Genin in the Marais – mille feuille, st honore and a chocolate eclair – followed by chocolate.
I think I may have reached the spiritual and pastry pinnacles of Paris today.
© Paul McCarthy & Iluminar.au
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