    [Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 40, Number 39 (Monday, September 27, 2004)]
    [Pages 2125-2126]
    [Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

    <R04>
    Message on the Observance of
    Yom Kippur, 5765

    September 23, 2004

     ``The Lord, the Lord God is gracious and compassionate, patient,
    abounding in kindness and faithfulness, assuring love for a thousand
    generations, forgiving iniquity, transgression and sin, and granting
    pardon.''
                                                    Exodus: 34:6-7
        On Yom Kippur, Jews around the world gather to mark the holiest day
    of the year, the Sabbath of Sabbaths. Jewish tradition teaches that on
    this day, we receive God's mercy through acts of atonement, prayer, and
    charity. During this season of prayer and intense reflection, may you
    find comfort in

    [[Page 2126]]

    God's promise, which has never been broken and which is renewed in our
    time.
        Our trust in God gives all Americans great purpose. As we are called
    to acts of compassion and mercy, we come closer to God and serve a cause
    greater than ourselves. May you trust God's faithfulness to all people,
    and may you be blessed with a good and happy New Year.
                                                    George W. Bush

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