The nearly 190-year-old First Reformed Church of Astoria stood on Thursday evening in powerful flames after a fire rapidly spread in the church building in the borough of Queens.
According to American media, the fire developed into a “major alarm”, with around 270 firefighters on site. The flames broke through the roof, and dense smoke spread over large parts of the area.
One of the oldest in New York City
The church, which was founded in 1839, was one of the oldest in New York City. It was previously damaged by fire on 14 January 1888. The building was then demolished and rebuilt, according to the American Guild of Organists.
The extent of the damage is for the time being unclear, but it is feared that the church is more or less a total loss. The cause of the fire is not known.
🚨 NOW: One of the OLDEST churches in New York City is currently up in flames
First Reformed Church of Astoria was established in 1839.
Really hate the see this.
Praying FDNY can save this church 🙏🏻 pic.twitter.com/6wysGzsFmb
— Nick Sortor (@nicksortor) April 24, 2026
At least five firefighters are said to have been injured and taken to hospital, but no fatalities have been reported.
In the meantime in the Middle East:
Muslims have destroyed thousands of churches across the Middle East and forced 2 million indigenous Christians to flee their homes.
They consider Christians infidels who must convert, pay jizya, or be killed.
Zero outrage by leftists or Muslims! pic.twitter.com/JpsXX7Deh7
— Dr. Maalouf (@realMaalouf) April 20, 2026