OPINION:
From official archives, here’s what Ronald Reagan said on Easter weekend, April 2, 1983. A link to a video made of Reagan delivering the original six-minute speech for a radio broadcast follows the text; courtesy of the Reagan Presidential Library and Foundation.
“This week as American families draw together in worship, we join with millions upon millions of others around the world also celebrating the traditions of their faiths. During these days, at least, regardless of nationality, religion, or race, we are united by faith in God, and the barriers between us seem less significant. Observing the rites of Passover and Easter, we’re linked in time to the ancient origins of our values and to the unborn generations who will still celebrate them long after we’re gone. As Paul explained in his Epistle to the Ephesians, He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near. So then you were no longer strangers and aliens, but you were fellow citizens of God’s household.’ “
“This is a time of hope and peace, when our spirits are filled and lifted. It’s a time when we give thanks for our blessings - chief among them, freedom, peace, and the promise of eternal life.”
“This week Jewish families and friends have been celebrating Passover, a tradition rich in symbolism and meaning. Its observance reminds all of us that the struggle for freedom and the battle against oppression waged by Jews since ancient times is one shared by people everywhere. And Christians have been commemorating the last momentous days leading to the crucifixion of Jesus 1,950 years ago.”
“Tomorrow, as morning spreads around the planet, we’ll celebrate the triumph of life over death, the Resurrection of Jesus. Both observances tell of sacrifice and pain but also of hope and triumph.”
Find a video of his complete speech, given from his California ranch, here
• Jennifer Harper can be reached at jharper@washingtontimes.com.
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