    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2007, Book II)]
    [December 3, 2007]
    [Pages 1513-1514]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Message on the Observance of Hanukkah 2007
    December 3, 2007

        I send greetings to all those celebrating Hanukkah, the festival of
    lights.
        Hanukkah commemorates a victory for freedom and the courage and
    faith that made it possible. More than 2,000 years ago, the land of
    ancient Israel was conquered, its sacred Temple was desecrated, and the
    Jewish people were forbidden to practice their faith. A patriot named
    Judah Maccabee and his followers rose up against their oppressors to
    take back Jerusalem. When the Maccabees returned to reclaim and purify
    their Holy Temple, the oil used for dedication should have lasted only
    one day but burned for eight. Every year since then, Jews have
    celebrated this victory of light over darkness and given thanks for the
    presence of a just and loving God.
        As Jewish Americans prepare to light the Hanukkah candles, we are
    reminded of the many blessings in our lives. The candles' glow has the
    power to lift our souls, put hope in our hearts, and make our Nation a
    more compassionate and peaceful place. We pray that those who still live
    in the darkness of tyranny will someday see the light of freedom, and we
    ask for God's continued guidance and boundless love and His protection
    of all those in need during this holiday season.
        Laura and I wish all people of the Jewish
    faith a Happy Hanukkah.

                                                              George W. Bush

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    this message.

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