The National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony has been a cherished American tradition for nearly 100 years. According to history the annual event was started in 1923 by the late President Calvin Coolidge to bring citizens together to share in a message of hope and peace.
This year marks the 96th year of the event and the reason for the season was clearly expressed through Donald Trump’s speech. Speaking on November 28, President Trump started his speech talking about the real heart of Christmas from the Gospel of Luke.
“For Christians all across our nation, around the world, this is a sacred season that began 2,000 years ago when Jesus Christ was born,” he said,
“An angel declared to the shepherds tending their flocks, ‘Behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, which is Christ the Lord,’” he said. “There in Bethlehem, Mary and Joseph held in their hands the Son of God, the light of the world, and through Him the promise of eternal salvation.”
President Trump also esteemed non-Christians saying, “No matter one’s faith or beliefs the Christmas seasons reflects all that is best in the American spirit.” He also applauded the foster families present in the event.
“We are one family. We hurt together, we heal together and will always pull through together.”
“We are especially thankful for the countless Americans who have given their time and passion to help those in need. Here in the audience today are a number of extraordinary foster families and guardians joined by the beautiful children they have welcomed into their homes… To every child in foster care: You are a precious loved one and gift of God,” he said.
And ended the speech with an inspirational challenge for all Americans:
“At this time of the year, we renew the bonds of affection between our fellow citizens, and we awaken the faith in our hearts that calls each of us to action. As we gather loved ones, our thoughts turn to those who are rebuilding their lives after devastating wildfires, destructive hurricanes and terrible tragedy. We are one American family. We hurt together, we heal together and we will always pull through together. This is the United States of America,” the President said.
https://youtu.be/tIXszr3Vejs
Source: The Western Journal
This article was written by Christel Berns Villariza.