Marquise

A large marquise dominates the entry to a hotel on Boulevard de la Madeleine.

Meringues and marzipan

A busy market street.

Chocolate meringues and marzipan piglets share a pâtisserie window

Castle on the Seine

A section of the medieval castle the Conciergerie as seen from a nearby bridge.

So-Pi

Place Saint-Georges, gateway to "So-Pi" the up/coming South Pigalle district, bathed in morning light.

Holy smoke

 

In Memoriam 

 

The tradition of offering Masses for the dead originated in the very early Church. Beautiful service today at Notre Dame Cathedral, setting of "The Hunchback of Notre Dame," Ralph's favorite novel and a fitting end to his story.

Above: the priests' arrival is heralded by incense; a soloist and backup choir sing the liturgy; a dignified departure

Farewell and Godspeed

- My deepest gratitude for everyone's support and to those who attended -

BPJ

***

- Getting a loved one's name on The List requires an appointment

- Masses for individuals at the Cathedral are not offered. These are group requiems and your loved one's name will be read aloud along with others for that day
- Incense ritual: just before Mass the priests enter in single file led by an acolyte swinging a small metal container of burning incense on a chain. With each swing the puffs of smoke rise higher as everyone makes their way to the altar
- Victor Hugo's original novel was called "Notre Dame de Paris" not "The Hunchback of Notre Dame," considered a spoiler title
- The Cathedral was built in 1163

 

Update: Since the April 15, 2019 fire a tentative re-opening of the Cathedral is scheduled for 2024

Fauvist feast

Café scene at the foot of a Montmartre stairway reminiscent of colors of Gauguin.

 

Ribbons of air

Passersby are handed colored ribbons to tie to a large grille of a sidewalk air vent.