Boylston Street church welcomes Carlos Arredondo

BOSTON - March 28, 2016 - PRLog -- On the day before the 120th Boston Marathon© (4/17/16), Old South Church in Boston, "The Church of the Finish Line," holds its annual Blessing of the Athletes at 11:00 am. A tradition since 2008, the Church prays down God's blessings on hundreds of marathoners: that they be kept safe from harm or injury, serve as an example of peaceful international competition, and summon the stamina to finish the race.

This year, Old South Church welcomes Carlos Arredondo to invoke the blessing. On April 15, 2013, Carlos ran toward the first explosion at the finish line to help pull down the barriers blocking first responders from the wounded. The courage of so many that day is exemplified in an iconic photo showing Carlos assisting Jeff Bauman as he is rushed from the scene of the first blast.

The service features stirring musical favorites including Leo Arnaud's Olympic Fanfare, and a special presentation of Highland Cathedral with bagpiper David Methven. The Church's 1921 E.M. Skinner Organ will be played by Minister of Music Harry L. Huff.

Old South Church in Boston (645 Boylston Street) is located 100 feet from the Marathon finish line and since April 2013 has ministered to survivors and first responders including many in the congregation. (http://www.oldsouth.org)