Notre Dame’s resurrection rejects the timid and self-effacing psychosis that has long strangled the West. It is a physical reminder that the principles that make the West great, like human rights, open inquiry, individual liberty, and rule of and by the people, grew out of a civilization that worshipped God.

Thousands of worshippers are expected to celebrate Christmas Day masses at Notre Dame cathedral in Paris as part of the celebrations hailing its restoration just over five years after fire nearly destroyed the 12th century monument.

Five years after a fire nearly destroyed Notre Dame of Paris, the newly restored cathedral has celebrated its first Christmas Day Mass. Paris Archbishop Laurent Ulrich led the Mass during which he made reference to the cathedral's remarkable restoration.

Notre Dame's rector blessed a large creche installed inside the renovated cathedral ahead of Christmas celebrations.

The Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris is now preparing to celebrate Christmas Mass since recently reopened after years of renovations to fix the damage caused by a devastating fire. NBC’s Keir Simmons reports for TODAY.