Related: Christmas Is About Christ: Let’s Keep It That Way

“In 1923, President Calvin Coolidge lit the first National Christmas tree,” Trump said, according to a transcript of his comments reported by LifeSiteNews.

“Later that night, African-American community centers held an outdoor worship service on these grounds, and during that service the Washington Monument was illuminated with a beautiful cross, a powerful reminder of the meaning of Christmas.”

See this tweet below with more information.

Close

Trump noted that the Christmas tree lighting ceremony was started by President Calvin Coolidge when he lit a 48-foot fir tree while accompanied by a U.S. Marine Band.

This year, President Trump lit a 30-foot evergreen tree at the White House decorated with 450 white star ornaments and over 50,000 lights.

During the ceremony, Trump told the nativity story of Jesus Christ.

“More than 2,000 years ago, a brilliant star shown in the East,” he said.

“Wise men traveled far and they came and they stood under the star where they found the Holy Family, in Bethlehem,” Trump added, citing St. Matthew’s account of the birth of Jesus.

“As the Bible tells us, when the wise men had come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary His mother, and fell down and worshipped Him,” the president continued.

“Christians give thanks that the Son of God came into the world to save humanity. Jesus Christ inspires us to love one another with hearts full of generosity and grace.”

Trump also recognized and thanked volunteers and military members who serve American families during the Christmas season, particularly the efforts of the Salvation Army.

“Each year through their Angel Tree program, the Salvation Army brings new gifts to more than 600,000 children” Trump noted.

“At Christmas we remember this eternal truth: Every person is a beloved child of God,” the president added.

“As one grateful nation we praise the joy of family, the blessings of freedom, and the miracle of Christmas.”

“On behalf of Melania and our entire family, Merry Christmas, and God bless you all,” Trump concluded.

This piece originally appeared in The Political Insider and is used by permission.

Read more at ThePoliticalInsider.com:
Video Surfaces of Pelosi Accusing Republicans of Impeaching Clinton Out of Hatred
Pelosi Frets: End of the World If Trump Wins in 2020
Democrat State Rep Charged with Allegedly Stealing Half Million from Charity for Mentally Ill

The opinions expressed by contributors and/or content partners are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of LifeZette.