Political Quotes

“Mr. President, thank you. Every April a large blue-and-gold banner flies above the entryway at Old South Church, with words from Isaiah: ``May you run and not grow weary, walk and not faint.'' Old South Church sits on the finish line for the Boston Marathon, a distinguished and historical spot that has earned its name, ``Church of the Finish Line.'' Today I welcome Rev. John Edgerton of Old South Church, the Church of the Finish Line, and thank him for coming here to share his faith, resilience, and fortitude. Less than 2 weeks ago, on the Sunday before the marathon, Old South Church welcomed athletes, friends, families, supporters, and marathon volunteers into the church for the annual premarathon ``Blessing of the Athletes.'' On Marathon Monday, just after 12 p.m., the bells of Old South Church rang in the men's winner of the Boston Marathon, Lelisa Desisa Benti, as he crossed the finish line. Later that day two blasts from hidden bombs rocked the crowded final stretch on the Boston Marathon. One explosion occurred mere feet from the front of the church. In an instant, Old South Church, the marathon church, the Church of the Finish Line, joined the rest of Boston in helping, comforting, and praying. The Old South Church was first gathered in 1669 by a group of colonists who wanted to create a more inclusive and welcoming congregation. Since then, it has played an integral role in Boston's history.…”