The historic St. Michael’s Byzantine Rite Catholic Church, Shenandoah, was completely destroyed by fire early today inn a fire that left at least 11 persons homeless.

The framed church, known for its three great gold “onion” domes, was founded in 1884 and is nationally-known as the first Greek Rite church in America.

Fire ripped through it and the domes fell, demolishing seven cars that were parked in front of it. Homes on West Oak Street were badly damaged by the blaze.

“You could not put a price tag on the church and you couldnt build one like it today,” said the Rev. John Bura, pastor.