    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2002, Book I)]
    [March 27, 2002]
    [Pages 516-517]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

     Message on the Observance of Easter, 2002
     March 27, 2002

         I send greetings to everyone observing Easter this year. During
    this joyful season of new life and renewal, Christians around the world
    celebrate the central event of their faith--the Resurrection of Jesus
    Christ, whom Christians believe is the Messiah, the Son of God.
         The life and teachings of Jesus have inspired people throughout the
    ages to strive for a better world and a more meaningful life. Jesus'
    death stands out in history as the perfect example of unconditional
    love. The four Gospels of the Christian Bible recount Jesus' amazing
    life, his miraculous death, resurrection, and ascension, and his
    unending offer of salvation to all. The story of Jesus' wondrous
    resurrection comes alive again for Christians each year at Easter.
         Easter Sunday commemorates in song and celebration the joy and
    promise of Christ's triumph over evil and death. Christians around the
    world gather together to sing well-loved hymns to God's glory,
    remembering the signs and wonders of God's grace revealed in Jesus. And
    they again will hear Gospel readings such as Saint Luke's rendering of
    that first Easter morning when the Angel asked: ``Why do you look for
    the living among the dead? He is not here; He has risen!''
         Easter's message of renewal is especially meaningful now during
    this challenging time in our Nation's history. On September 11, 2001,
    America suffered devastating loss. In the wake of great evil, however,
    Americans responded with strength, compassion, and generosity. As we
    fight to promote freedom around the world and to protect innocent lives
    in America, we remember the call of the Battle Hymn of the Republic:
    ``As He died to make men holy, let us live to make men free.''
         Laura joins me in sending best wishes for a wonderful Easter.

                                                              George W. Bush

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