President Trump on the Crucifixion of Our Savior Jesus Christ

President Trump: "Nearly 2,000 years ago, during the Holy Week, the living Son of God entered Jerusalem in triumph. Shortly after, the Savior of humanity, who brought truth and light into the world, was betrayed, arrested, judged, beaten, nailed to a cross, and crucified.

For us, He gave His life. And as the great Reverend Billy Graham once said: “God proved His love on the cross. When Christ hung, bled, and died, it was God saying to the world: ‘I love you.’”

Those are beautiful words from a great man, right Franklin? A great man, Franklin’s incredible father. I went to Yankee Stadium with my father many years ago to see your father."

President Donald Trump hosted an Easter prayer service dinner at the White House on Wednesday.

The president addressed about 40 Christian leaders in the White House's Blue Room, telling them, "I hope this is going to be one of the great Easters ever."

He called the death and resurrection of Jesus "two of the most monumental events in history."

In brief remarks that stuck mostly to a religious message — without the many lengthy asides the president usually relishes when giving speeches — Trump denounced the persecution of Christians in other parts of the world and noted the creation of a Department of Justice task force to combat anti-Christian bias.

"The death and resurrection of Jesus are the essence of the Christian faith. Whether rich or poor, healthy or sick, young or old, or in times of peace or war, Christians everywhere find solace and hope in the knowledge that Christ died for them and that they can be united with Him in heaven."

The president was introduced by Franklin Graham, the son of famed evangelist Billy Graham. Before the president spoke, Graham delivered a prayer.