Contact: White House, Office of the Press Secretary, 202-456-2580

WASHINGTON, Dec. 3 /Christian Newswire/ -- The following message is released by the White House:

I send greetings to all those celebrating Hanukkah, the festival of lights.

Hanukkah commemorates a victory for freedom and the courage and faith that made it possible.  More than 2,000 years ago, the land of ancient Israel was conquered, its sacred Temple was desecrated, and the Jewish people were forbidden to practice their faith.  A patriot named Judah Maccabee and his followers rose up against their oppressors to take back Jerusalem.  When the Maccabees returned to reclaim and purify their Holy Temple, the oil used for dedication should have lasted only one day but burned for eight.  Every year since then, Jews have celebrated this victory of light over darkness and given thanks for the presence of a just and loving God.

As Jewish Americans prepare to light the Hanukkah candles, we are reminded of the many blessings in our lives.  The candles' glow has the power to lift our souls, put hope in our hearts, and make our Nation a more compassionate and peaceful place.  We pray that those who still live in the darkness of tyranny will someday see the light of freedom, and we ask for God's continued guidance and boundless love and His protection of all those in need during this holiday season.

Laura and I wish all people of the Jewish faith a Happy Hanukkah.

GEORGE W. BUSH