Historic 'Church of Presidents' in Washington escaped death by fire

Participants in the riots painted graffiti on the Church of St. John in the capital of the United States, tore the national flag from it, smashed glass and threw a Molotov cocktail inside. However, the firefighters who arrived on time managed to localize and extinguish the fire in the basement of the church, where the office premises are located.

This historic temple in Lafayette Square in Washington DC was built in the early 19th century. It is also called the 'Presidents' Church'. According to the official website of the church, all American presidents, starting with James Madison (1809-1817), offered prayers here at least once. In difficult times for the country, many of them sought spiritual guidance and salvation for the American people and state here.

Recall that the riots in the United States broke out after a police officer inadvertently killed when he stepped on his knee on the neck of African American George Floyd, which led to his death. A significant part of the country's cities has been engulfed in pogroms and violence. The brother of the deceased called on the rioters to end the riots. “What are you all doing? It won't bring my brother back. My family is peaceful, my family God-fearing. And I know George would not want you to do that. It will bring you satisfaction only for a short time, as if intoxicated. When it’s over, you yourself will be amazed at what you have done, ”said Terrence Floyd, addressing the rioters.