    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2002, Book II)]
    [November 26, 2002]
    [Pages 2135-2136]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Message on the Observance of Hanukkah, 2002
    November 26, 2002

        I am pleased to send greetings to everyone celebrating Hanukkah, the
    festival of lights.
        For eight days and nights, Hanukkah commemorates the rededication of
    the Holy Temple in Jerusalem and the ancient story of Israel's
    courageous faith. In a victorious struggle against their oppressors, the
    Maccabees heroically overcame enormous odds to liberate the ancient
    kingdom of Israel. Hanukkah reminds us that faith can

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    give us the strength to overcome oppression. Today, the spirit of the
    Maccabees continues to live and thrive among the Jewish people and in
    the State of Israel.
        During the eight days of Hanukkah, Jews throughout the world gather
    with family and friends to rejoice and celebrate. Each night, they light
    a branch of the menorah to commemorate the miracle of the lamp that,
    with only enough oil for one day, burned in the ancient Temple for eight
    days. The festival of lights culminates on the eighth night when all the
    candles burn in unity, symbolizing the eternal light of the Temple and
    the long-standing struggle of the Jewish people against adversity.
        Americans join in thanking God for our blessings and renew our
    commitment to the values of faith, family, and community that make us
    strong. The candles of Hanukkah remind us that in the face of darkness,
    goodness will prevail.
        Laura joins me in sending our best wishes for
    a joyous Hanukkah.

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    this message.