President Barack Obama Will Be in Boston for Interfaith Memorial Service

President Barack Obama is making his way to Boston on Thursday to attend an interfaith vigil with Massachusetts officials, as well as the people impacted by the tragedy that unfolded at the finish line of the Boston Marathon on Monday.

According to a press release from Governor Deval Patrick’s office, the public is invited to attend the “Healing Our City” interfaith service event being held at the Cathedral of the Holy Cross on Washington Street at 11 a.m. “The service is an opportunity for the community to come together in the wake of the tragic events at the Boston Marathon this week,” officials said in a statement. “First responders, civic leaders from communities along the marathon route, medical personnel, victims and their families, as well as volunteers from the Boston Athletic Association have been invited to attend.”

Reports indicate that First Lady Michelle Obama could also be making an appearance at the vigil alongside the president.

In the hours following the bombings in Boston Obama addressed the nation, calling the acts of terror “heinous” and “cowardly,” and offered as many resources as needed to investigators and police officials trying to locate a suspect involved with the incident. Obama also said federal resources for victims and families would be available. “Boston is a tough and resilient town. So are its people. I’m supremely confident that Bostonians will pull together, take care of each other, and move forward as one proud city. And as they do, the American people will be with them every single step of the way,” the president said, immediately following the bombing.

He later signed a proclamation ordering flags to be flown at half-mast to honor the victims of the attack.

Because Boston is already on high alert following the blasts that claimed the lives of three innocent bystanders, and injured more than 176 others, security will be extremely thorough at the event officials said Wednesday. “Guests are asked to bring as few personal items as possible. No bags, sharp objects, liquids or signs will be allowed in the venue.”

Due to portions of Boston still being closed as the investigation into the attacks continues, attendees are encouraged to use public transit to get to the vigil. Tickets will be available at the event on a first come, first serve basis, and doors will open at 8 a.m.

The interfaith ceremony will be televised for those who can’t make it to the event on Thursday.