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(THE CHRISTIAN POST) – Easter is a major holiday in the Christian faith, the Sunday which is when Christians celebrate Jesus Christ’s resurrection on the third day after being crucified.
Have you taken your place on the wall?
The day is known for both secular and religious celebrations, from Easter egg rolls, candy for children and retail sales, to worship services, processions, and pilgrimages to the Holy Land.
In recent decades, presidents of the United States have made it a tradition to issue messages in commemoration of the special holy day, focusing on the resurrection and other aspects.
Here are six statements issued by recent presidents in celebration of Easter, with some of these messages being released during or shortly after times of upheaval and uncertainty.
Ronald Reagan – 1981
Not long after being sworn in as president of the United States and a few weeks after surviving a failed assassination attempt, Ronald Reagan issued a statement in celebration of both Easter and Passover.
“Passover is rich with tradition and symbolism. Its observance reminds us that the fight for freedom and the battle against oppression, waged by Jews throughout their history, is one of which all free people are a part,” stated Reagan.
“Beginning today and culminating on Sunday morning, Christians will celebrate with their families the resurrection of Christ, His victory over death. We will remember that He gave His body and His blood — washing clean the faults and the shortcomings of the world. In our rejoicing, we will renew the hope that is ours through the risen Lord.”
Bill Clinton – 1996
A few months after the famous Blizzard of ’96 dumped 1 to 2 feet of snow over much of the Eastern United States, President Bill Clinton issued a message on observing Easter, noting that “the Resurrection of Jesus” is the “central event” of Christianity.
“This holy day marks that moment in time when good conquered evil, hope overcame despair, and life triumphed over death,” Clinton said.
“Just as spring brings warmth and beauty to the earth after a harsh winter, Easter brings joy and new life to the spirit, reminding us that no mistake or failing of the past can put us beyond the reach of God’s mercy.”
Clinton went on to note that “Easter’s timeless message strengthens us for the tasks before us” and that “we remember that our lives have great purpose and value.”
George W. Bush – 2003
President George W. Bush issued an Easter message that called the observance “the most important event of the Christian faith.”
“For Christians, the life and death of Jesus are the ultimate expressions of love, and the supreme demonstrations of God’s mercy, faithfulness and redemption,” stated Bush.
“Since Christ’s miraculous Resurrection on Easter, more than 2,000 years ago, Christians have expressed joy and gratitude for this wondrous sacrifice and for God’s promise of freedom for the oppressed, healing for the brokenhearted, and salvation.”
Issued about a month after the United States led a coalition of nations to invade Iraq and topple the Saddam Hussein regime, Bush noted that while “this year’s observance comes at a time when our world faces many challenges, the message of Easter remains unchanged.”
Barack Obama – 2016
In 2016, during his last full year in office, President Barack Obama released an Easter statement in which he noted that he and his wife “join our fellow Christians in observing Good Friday and celebrating Easter this weekend.”
“This is a time to remember the sacrifices made for us and hold all who suffer close to our hearts,” stated Obama.
“Yet it is also a time to rejoice, give thanks for the Resurrection, and unite with Christians around the world in proclaiming, ‘Christ has risen; He has risen indeed.” We wish all who celebrate a blessed and joyful Easter.”
Donald Trump – 2020
As the nation locked down in response to COVID-19, President Donald Trump issued an Easter message, noting that “this year’s observance of Easter comes during a somber time for our Nation.”
“As our Nation has faced the unique challenges posed by the coronavirus during the past few weeks, we have turned to God for guidance, comfort, and hope. Throughout this difficult period, we have witnessed the core tenets of Christianity—love, compassion, and kindness—reflected in the many acts of courage, generosity, and caring of the American people,” Trump said.
“No matter the circumstances, we will always celebrate Easter as a time of rejuvenation, rebirth, and a renewed sense of purpose and faith. The coronavirus will not stop Easter. Even in the darkest hours, God’s abundant love and mercy are unwavering.”
Joe Biden – 2022
[In 2022], President Joe Biden released a statement on Easter in which the current commander-in-chief noted that “Holy Week has taken us on a journey from sorrow to salvation.”
“As we reflect today on Christ’s Resurrection, we are reminded that with faith, hope, and love — even death can be defeated,” stated Biden.
“And, as we emerge from this pandemic, we are grateful that so many are able to celebrate this day of joy and renewal with services and family gatherings in person and together again.”
Biden went on to state that he sought “a common hope for the future, reaffirm love and compassion for one another, and cherish the blessing of the dawn of new possibilities.”
Donald Trump – 2026
This year, President Trump and his administration have proven to be speak the most about their faith in Jesus Christ, and the pattern continues. On Ash Wednesday, President Trump said, “Above all, as we prepare for the triumphant resurrection of Jesus Christ on Easter Sunday—the greatest miracle in the history of mankind—we pause to remember those sacred words: “This is the time of fulfillment. The Kingdom of God is at hand. Repent, and believe in the Gospel.”
What did you think of these presidents’ words? Share your thoughts and prayers below.
Originally published in The Christian Post.
