    [Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 33, Number 17 (Monday, April 28, 1997)]
    [Page 566]
    [Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

    <R04>
    Message on the Observance of Passover, 1997

    April 21, 1997

        Warm greetings to everyone observing Passover.
        Commemorating God's liberation of the Israelites from Egyptian
    slavery, Passover is the story of a people who, sustained by their faith
    in God and strengthened by their own courage and determination, broke
    free from oppression to seek a new life in a new land. Their journey was
    long and full of peril, and their resolve sometimes shaken by doubt; but
    ultimately the Jewish people reached the Promised Land, where they could
    live and worship and raise their children in the sweet air of freedom.
        The ageless festival of Passover holds profound meaning for
    Americans. We began our nation's journey to freedom more than two
    hundred years ago, a journey that is still not complete. Now we look
    forward to a new century and a new millennium, strengthened by the
    knowledge that we, too, have been blessed by God with the vision of a
    land of great promise set aside for those who cherish freedom.
        As we mark the observance of another Passover, let us renew our
    commitment to America's promise. Let us continue our journey to a land
    where all our people are free to pursue our common dreams--to live in
    peace, to provide for our families, and to give our children the
    opportunity for a better life.
        Hillary joins me in extending best wishes for a joyous Passover
    celebration.
                                                      Bill Clinton