Fire Breaks Out at St. John the Divine, Largest Church in United States By Alan ClendenningAssociated Press Writer Published: Dec 18, 2001 NEW YORK (AP) - Fire broke out Tuesday morning at the historic Cathedral of St. John the Divine, with flames shooting from the Episcopal church that has been under construction for more than a century. Part of the roof of an adjoining three-story gift shop caved in but no injuries were reported. The Christmastime fire, which was brought under control within 2 1/2 hours, was largely contained in the main cathedral area, according to fire officials, who said they expected widespread smoke and water damage. The cause of the blaze was under investigation. Up to 200 firefighters were called to the scene at about 7 a.m., an hour before the first Mass of the day at the world's largest gothic cathedral. Smoke poured from the gift shop, and scores of onlookers stood by. "There were clouds of black smoke 40 feet high. The winds were blowing it all over the place," said Juan Cruz, a mechanic who saw the fire on his way to work at nearby Columbia University. ---- Just a coincidence, I'm sure.