Jim Burns, CNSNews.com
Tueday, Dec. 25, 2001

The president made a veiled reference to September's terrorist attacks against New York and Washington in his message.

"This year in the midst of extraordinary times, our nation has shown the world that though there is great evil, there is greater good. Americans have given of themselves, sacrificing to help others and showing the spirit of love and sharing that is so much a part of the Christmas season," said the president in his statement.

"According to the Gospel of Luke, two thousand years ago, the savior of mankind came into the world. Christians believe that Jesus' birth was the incarnation of God on earth, opening the door to new hope and eternal life," Bush said.

"This Christmas we remember those who are without their loved ones. They continue to be in our hearts and prayers. May they experience peace, and may they find hope. And as we again celebrate Christ's birth, may the glorious light of God's goodness and love shine forth from our land," he concluded.

Last week, during a visit to a Washington soup kitchen, the president told Americans not to send gifts to him and First Lady Laura Bush but to instead give to charity.

"Instead of sending Laura and me something, if they choose to do so, I would hope they would figure out a way to help a community charitable-based organization," he said. It would "be the best gift you could possibly give us."

Copyright CNSNews.com All Rights Reserved

Read more on this subject in related Hot Topics:

George W. Bush

A product that might interest you:
Free Offer! Subscribe to NewsMax.com Magazine Today