BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (AP) _ A fire that broke out during a service at the historic Woodlawn United Methodist Church has destroyed the building, which was constructed in 1912.
A firefighter suffered a minor injury when a piece of debris fell on his shoulder while he was fighting the blaze, which started around 1:30 p.m. Sunday. About 14 people were inside at the time.
Pastor Marge Ragona says members of Bethel Metropolitan Community Church, who use the sanctuary for worship Sunday afternoons, had just started Communion when they smelled smoke. Everyone safely evacuated.
Birmingham Fire Chief Ivor Brooks says the fire came up the stairwell from the basement. Authorities are investigating the cause.