President Obama hosted the annual Easter prayer breakfast at the White House Friday (April 5), nearly a week after Western Christians celebrated the holiday. Leaders from many Christian traditions attended. The president called Easter a time to remember the sacrifice of Jesus and recommit to following his example. He reflected in particular on caring for the needy:

President Obama: “When we tend to the sick, when we console those in pain, when we sacrifice for those in need, wherever and whenever we are there to give comfort and to guide and to love, then Christ is with us.”