
BUSHWICK — THE CAUSE OF Friday’s fire that destroyed a historic church in Bushwick is still being investigated, the New York Times reported on Tuesday.
The FDNY told reporters from News 12 Brooklyn that the fire broke out around 1:20 p.m. on Friday, destroying the wood frame building that had been constructed in 1853. The church, which was originally named South Bushwick Reformed Protestant Dutch Church, was considered one of the neighborhood’s oldest surviving houses of worship and served Dutch and German immigrant families.
During its 173 years, the church had also withstood through other catastrophes, including arson-related fires during riots in the 1970s and 1980s, a tornado that ripped through the neighborhood in 2006, and Hurricane Isaias six years ago. The church was listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and its steeple was both a compass guide and landmark to Bushwick’s local geography.
The church’s website defines its community as “a loving multi-generational and multi-cultural worshipping community,” and also identifies as “non-traditional.” Rev. Dr. James E. Steward II, pastor since 2013, held services online last Sunday.
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SUNSET PARK — “As a resident of Marine Park, one of the great surprises I found biking around Industry City and visiting Japan Village was to discover Bush Terminal Park. I continue to be amazed at the serene hideaways that the city offers in some of the busiest places — and, still, with an iconic view.”

BROOKLYN HEIGHTS — ‘A miracle that no one was killed …’ That’s what neighbors are saying about the collapse of the Hotel St. George marquee. Shown in this photograph are workmen beginning the removal and repair of the historic, old neon sign at the corner, referencing a relic of Brooklyn Heights’ past: the St. George Hotel.

ATLANTIC AVENUE — Exhausted shopper with cluster of bags and goods from mall at Boerum Place stops to look at huge construction site across the street. “Is that REALLY going to be a jail??” Her male companion is reassuring, “Nothing like Rikers … this is 21st Century.”
BROOKLYN HEIGHTS — Overheard in line at one of most popular pastry outlets on Montague Street: “Hope I can get them into a camp …” A mother with two pre-schoolers in tow was showing a friend the Dodge Y flyer for Healthy Kids Day on Saturday, April 18.