    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2002, Book II)]
    [December 20, 2002]
    [Page 2209]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Message on the Observance of Christmas 2002
    December 20, 2002

        I send greetings to those celebrating Christmas.
        During Christmas, we gather with family and friends to celebrate the
    birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. As God's only Son, Jesus came to
    Earth and gave His life so that we may live. His actions and His words
    remind us that service to others is central to our lives and that
    sacrifice and unconditional love must guide us and inspire us to lead
    lives of compassion, mercy, and justice.
        The true spirit of Christmas reflects a dedication to helping those
    in need, to giving hope to those in despair, and to spreading peace and
    understanding throughout the Earth. As we share love and enjoy the
    traditions of this holiday, we are also grateful for the men and women
    of our Armed Forces who are working to defend freedom, secure our
    homeland, and advance peace and safety around the world.
        This Christmas, may we give thanks for the blessings God has granted
    to our Nation and in each of our lives. May the joy of the holidays
    renew our commitment to working together for a future of peace,
    opportunity, and hope.
        Laura joins me in wishing you a Merry Christmas and a blessed New
    Year.

                                                              George W. Bush

    Note: An original was not available for verification of the content of
    this message. The Office of the Press Secretary also released a Spanish
    language version of this message.