Free Republic

ALEXANDRIA, Va. (AP) — President Barack Obama and the first family attended Easter service at a historic black church that traces its origins to when Thomas Jefferson was president. The Rev. Howard-John Wesley, the pastor at Alfred Street Baptist Church, welcomed back the Obamas, whom he described as "the gorgeous family." The Obamas also visited the church last Easter. The congregation, led by a choir clad in crimson, gold and white robes, joined in song early in the service, with the pastor asking them to share introductions, "but don't act crazy" as the hundreds in attendance exchanged hugs and handshakes....

Washington (AFP) - President Barack Obama attended a spirited Easter service at a historic black church on Sunday, in keeping with the first family's tradition of visiting local Washington area congregations. The president, his wife Michelle and their two teenaged daughters attended the Alfred Street Baptist Church in Alexandria, Virginia, its pews filled with congregants who could barely contain their excitement over the visit. "How fitting that on the day we celebrate the rising of our Lord and Savior, we also welcome our sitting president," Pastor Howard-John Wesley said to applause from enthusiastic worshippers, whom he urged to keep their...