    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2001, Book II)]
    [December 7, 2001]
    [Page 1495]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Message on the Observance of Hanukkah, 2001
    December 7, 2001

        Laura and I send our warmest greetings to all those celebrating
    Hanukkah, the festival of lights.
        The celebration of Hanukkah 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.
        Hanukkah commemorates the reconsecration of the ancient temple in
    Jerusalem by the Maccabees and their followers, after it had been
    desecrated. Hanukkah 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
    Hanukkah light our memories of those lost on September 11. And may this
    be a season of joy for us all.

                                                              George W. Bush

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