[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 38, Number 13 (Monday, April 1, 2002)]
[Page 529]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
 Message on the Observance of Easter, 2002

 March 27, 2002

     I send greetings to everyone observing Easter this year. During 
this joyful season of new life and renewal, Christians around the world 
celebrate the central event of their faith--the Resurrection of Jesus 
Christ, whom Christians believe is the Messiah, the Son of God.
     The life and teachings of Jesus have inspired people throughout the 
ages to strive for a better world and a more meaningful life. Jesus' 
death stands out in history as the perfect example of unconditional 
love. The four Gospels of the Christian Bible recount Jesus' amazing 
life, his miraculous death, resurrection, and ascension, and his 
unending offer of salvation to all. The story of Jesus' wondrous 
resurrection comes alive again for Christians each year at Easter.
     Easter Sunday commemorates in song and celebration the joy and 
promise of Christ's triumph over evil and death. Christians around the 
world gather together to sing well-loved hymns to God's glory, 
remembering the signs and wonders of God's grace revealed in Jesus. And 
they again will hear Gospel readings such as Saint Luke's rendering of 
that first Easter morning when the Angel asked: ``Why do you look for 
the living among the dead? He is not here; He has risen!''
     Easter's message of renewal is especially meaningful now during 
this challenging time in our Nation's history. On September 11, 2001, 
America suffered devastating loss. In the wake of great evil, however, 
Americans responded with strength, compassion, and generosity. As we 
fight to promote freedom around the world and to protect innocent lives 
in America, we remember the call of the Battle Hymn of the Republic: 
``As He died to make men holy, let us live to make men free.''
     Laura joins me in sending best wishes for a wonderful Easter.
                                                George W. Bush

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