The U.S. National Archives in Washington, D.C., houses all the Public Papers of the Presidents. Among them is President Ronald Reagan's nationally broadcast Christmas Address, delivered this day, December 20, 1983.
President Reagan stated: "Of all the songs ever sung at Christmastime, the most wonderful of all was the song of exaltation heard by the shepherds while tending their flocks on the night of Christ's birth. An angel of the Lord appeared to them and said: 'Fear not: for 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.'... Sometimes, in the hustle and bustle of holiday preparations we forget that the true meaning of Christmas... the birth of the Prince of Peace, Jesus Christ... During this glorious festival let us renew our determination to follow His example. Won't all of you join Nancy and me in a prayer for peace and good will."
