For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
December 25, 2001

Christmas Radio Message by the President to the Nation

      Listen to the President's Remarks
     

THE PRESIDENT:  Good morning, and merry Christmas.  During this time of conflict and challenge, Christmas is a day on which we celebrate hope and joy; when our thoughts turn to justice and compassion, and to a Prince of Peace born long ago.

This is a day on which we give thanks for the wonder of God's love, for the blessings we have received, and for the families we love.  And this year all of these things seem particularly important.

Charles Dickens wrote that Christmas is a time when abundance rejoices and want is keenly felt.  This Christmas finds many facing hurt and loss, especially the families of terror victims and of our young men killed in battle.  America grieves with you, and we hope you'll especially find the comfort and hope of Christmas.

Laura and I send our good wishes to all the families in America that have come together in celebration.  We're especially grateful to all the men and women of our military, many of whom are today separated from their loved ones because they're serving our country.

Even in this time of war, we pray for peace on Earth and goodwill toward men, and we continue to ask God's blessings on the United States.

Merry Christmas, and happy New Year.

END