[Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1998, Book II)]
[December 18, 1998]
[Page 2195]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]



Message on the Observance of Ramadan
December 18, 1998

    Warm greetings to all those observing the holy month of Ramadan.
    Ramadan is a special time of reflection and renewal for Muslims 
around the world, including the 6 million Americans who are making Islam 
one of our nation's fastest-growing religions. Through fasting and 
devoted reading of the Koran, Muslims strengthen their faith in God and 
deepen the compassion that gives their faith such dignity and power in 
the eyes of Muslims and non-Muslims alike. It is a time for renewing our 
spirituality and for recognizing our common humanity. It is a time to 
remember all that we have done and all that we have yet to do to make 
this world worthy of its Creator.
    As the crescent moon rises, and the ninth month begins, Hillary 
joins me in extending best wishes to you and your families for health, 
prosperity, and happiness. May our prayers for a better world soon be 
answered.

                                                            Bill Clinton