A community is coming together to celebrate both the life of former Boston Mayor Tom Menino and also the many accomplishments he's achieved.
Menino passed away Thursday at the age of 71.
"Lord we thank you that for over 30 years of his life that he gave it to the people. Not only as a city councilor but as the longest standing mayor of this great city of Boston," one speaker said.
At a service Thursday night, a crowd gathered at Mattapan's Morning Star Baptist Church, a church Menino has visited and even worshiped at in the past and an inner city community that feels it has benefited greatly from his dedication to bringing change.
"He could have left and gone elsewhere but he stayed. So let's all think about the legacy he's left behind and how we can help build upon that legacy," said another speaker.
One message to the group was to use Menino's life as an inspiration to try to be a better community, better citizens and to also strive for change.
"He was arduous in his efforts to help the less fortunate here in Boston so let's do all we can to do our part to not just talk about love but to show love in a very tangible and practical way," a speaker said.
