Trump's VERY holy Christmas message: The President quotes the bible as he and Melania give festive address after he pushed Xmas greetings in favor of more inclusive 'happy holidays' wishes

By OP

16:49 GMT 25 Dec 2017, updated 19:41 GMT 25 Dec 2017

• Trump tweeted the video Monday, which was pre-recorded before the first family decamped for Mar-a-Lago for the holiday 
• In the clip, the president and first lady talk about paying tribute to military families and spending time with loved ones
• Trump also quotes from the book of Isiah about the birth of Jesus   

President Donald Trump and the first lady on Monday released a joint Christmas Day video message from the White House, quoting passages from the Bible and praising military families. 

Trump tweeted out the short recording, which was taped before the first family left Washington DC for their holiday vacation at Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida. 

'My fellow Americans, Melania and I are delighted to wish America and the entire world a very Merry Christmas,' the president says at the outset of the video.

President Trump and First Lady wish the world Merry Christmas

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President Donald Trump and the first lady on Monday released a joint Christmas Day video message from the White House

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Al aglow: A montage in the video shows this year's holiday decorations at the White House

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Focal point: The video showcases an elaborate Nativity scene, with a lingering shot of baby Jesus and saints 

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Sending a message: A 'Merry Christmas' banner is seen hanging in the White House

Melania Trump, dressed in a lacy red frock, says that at this time of year, 'we see the best of America and the soul of the American people,' and pays tribute to 'our brave men and women in uniform.'

The video, clocking at 1 minute, 44 seconds, features a montage showing the first family greeting troops and spending time with children, and footage showcasing this year's Christmas decorations at the White House, including closeups of an elaborate nativity scene and a banner that reads, 'Merry Christmas.'

Trump then goes on to say: 'In the season of joy, we spend time with our families, we renew the bonds of love and goodwill between our citizens and most importantly we celebrate the miracle of Christmas. 

'For Christians we remember the story of Jesus, Mary and Joseph that began more than 2,000 years ago. As the book of Isaiah tells us, for to us a child is born, to us a son is given and the government will be on his shoulders and he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.