Obama: Israel visit made Easter extra special

US president says he ‘felt the spirit of Jesus Christ’ on his recent trip to the Holy Land

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Barack Obama says he “felt the spirit of Jesus Christ” on a recent visit to Israel and it made this Easter particularly special for him.

Obama told Christian leaders attending a breakfast in the White House East Room on Friday that the feeling brought him closer to Christ.

He said it was a reminder that while time on Earth is fleeting, Jesus Christ is eternal. He said it also was a reminder that the life and lessons of Jesus Christ live on through everyday actions, such as comforting others.

Obama asked the audience to pray that “we’re worthy of his many blessings” and that the country also is worthy of Christ’s blessings.

The breakfast continued a tradition that Obama started in 2010.