Posted on 12/08/2001 7:51:28 PM PST by onyx
BUSH SENDS HANUKKA GREETINGS
JERUSALEM (December 9) - US President George W. Bush and First Lady Laura Bush yesterday extended greetings to the Jewish people on the occasion of Hanukka.
"Hanukka celebrates the liberation of the ancient kingdom of Israel from foreign occupation.
"It teaches us that freedom must sometimes be fought for - a message that continues to resonate today," Bush said.
Hanukka is celebrated beginning tonight.
"Laura and I send our warmest greetings to all those celebrating Hanukka, the festival of lights," Bush said in comments released by the White House.
"The celebration of Hanukka is inspired by the story of the miracle of the lamp: how a ration of oil sufficient only for one day burned for eight.
"It is a holiday of hope that encourages trust in God's providence and God's purposes, even when we are threatened by darkness and destruction.
"Hanukka commemorates the reconsecration of the ancient temple in Jerusalem by the Maccabees and their followers, after it had been desecrated.
"Hanukka celebrates the liberation of the ancient kingdom of Israel from foreign occupation. It teaches us that freedom must sometimes be fought for - a message that continues to resonate today.
"We join all people of Jewish faith in thanking God who has 'sustained us and enabled us to reach this season.'
"May the candles of Hanukka light our memories of those lost on September 11.
"And may this be a season of joy for us all."
Thank you, and Merry Christmas to you (I'll say it again on the proper date).
Thank you
Stay well - Stay safe - Stay armed - Yorktown
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