    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2008, Book II)]
    [December 8, 2008]
    [Page 1433]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Message on the Observance of Eid al-Adha
    December 8, 2008

        I send greetings to Muslims around the world celebrating Eid al-
    Adha, the Festival of Sacrifice.
        Eid al-Adha commemorates Abraham's devotion to God, and it reminds
    us of God's mercy and provision for his people. Abraham's deep faith was
    tested when God asked him to sacrifice his son. Although Abraham was set
    to faithfully obey, God provided an alternate sacrifice that spared his
    son. During this holiday, Muslims around the world honor Abraham's trust
    in God and celebrate God's love through acts of charity and joyous
    feasts with family, friends, and others in their community.
        Our Nation is blessed by vibrant Muslim communities. On this
    holiday, all Americans celebrate our religious liberty, and we remember
    that religious freedom belongs not to any one nation but to the world.
        Laura and I send our best wishes for a
    blessed holiday.

                                                              George W. Bush

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