DATE=MARCH 30, 2002

TYPE=CORRESPONDENT REPORT

NUMBER=2-288162

TITLE=BUSH/EASTER (S)

BYLINE=SCOTT STEARNS

DATELINE=WHITE HOUSE

CONTENT:

VOICED AT:

INTRO: President Bush says there are "grave challenges" ahead in the war against terrorism. In his weekly radio address, the president marked the Easter and Passover holidays by speaking about the importance of faith in recovering from the violence of September 11th.

TEXT: Nearly seven months after the terrorist attacks, President Bush says the shock and sadness of that day are still felt.

/// BUSH ACT ///

For many, the grief and sense of loss will never fully pass, and they are in our thoughts, especially in this holy season.

/// END ACT ///

Mr. Bush says the holidays are a time of joy and renewal for Jews and Christians, holy days that he says represent some of the most profound hopes of humanity, a reliance on the Creator that is shared in many traditions.

He says the nation faces grave challenges and dangers in the war against terrorism. Justice and cruelty have always been at war, he says, and God is not neutral in the fight.

The president and First Lady are spending the Easter weekend at their Texas ranch. They are joined by her mother and his parents, the former President George Bush and his wife Barbara. (SIGNED)

NEB/SKS/TW