The heroic firefighter priest who saved the crown of Jesus

PARIS

The fire that destroyed Monday much of the iconic Notre-Dame de Paris Cathedral also threatened to devastate the crown of thorns and the tunic of San Luis, among the most important relics housing building.

But fortunately, they could be saved from the flames, according to Bishop Patrick Chauvet, rector of the cathedral.

The performance of Jean-Marc Fournier, chaplain of the Paris Fire Department, played a key role in this rescue mission.

The religious is already considered by many as a hero, because his performance was essential to save these objects of incalculable value.

Etienne Loraillere, editor-in-chief of the KTO Catholic television channel in France, recounted the courageous attitude of Chaplain Fournier. The information was confirmed to the Daily Mail by a source of emergency services, who said the priest "is an absolute hero". "He showed no fear at any time, he went directly to take the relics and made sure they were safe," he added.

Fournier was already known for his courage: after the terrorist attacks of the Paris concert hall Bataclan in November 2015, he helped the wounded and prayed for the dead. The religious had served in the diocese of the French armed forces before joining the fire department. (AP)