Every year at this time, we celebrate the promise of peace and joy that emanates from the Divine intervention in Bethlehem some 2,000 years ago.

It so happens that Hanukkah begins this year on Christmas Eve, reminding us of our common heritage and Divine intervention of another sort in the cause of human freedom.

We cherish our traditions because they remind us of who we are as a people. In 2016, we are especially grateful that our nation has been given a chance to recover the qualities that have made America uniquely free, prosperous and generous.

Amid strife and conflict at home and abroad, with the threat of terrorism hanging over many, we feel special gratitude toward the men and women in our military who have sacrificed so much to keep us free. We also are grateful for those in law enforcement here at home who risk their lives every day to keep us safe.

As the days roll by, the news can be jarring, but one thing remains the same: the peace that passes all understanding, and Whose source is acclaimed in this glorious carol:

Hark the herald angels sing

“Glory to the newborn king”

Peace on earth, and mercy mild

God and sinners reconciled

Joyful all ye nations rise

Join the triumph of the skies

With angelic host proclaim

“Christ is born in Bethlehem”

Hark the herald angels sing

“Glory to the newborn king”

Christ, by highest heaven adored

Christ the everlasting Lord

Late in time behold him come

Offspring of the favored one

Veiled in flesh, the God had seen

Hail the incarnate deity

Pleased, as man with men to dwell

Jesus, our Emmanuel

Hark the herald angels sing

“Glory to the newborn king”

Hail the heaven born prince of peace

Hail the son of righteousness

Light and life to all he brings

Risen with healing in his wings

Born that man no more may die

Born to raise the sons of earth

Born to give them second birth

Hark the herald angels sing

“Glory to the newborn king”

Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukkah to all from all of us at the American Civil Rights Union!