The Leader of the Official Opposition and Leader of the Conservative Party of Canada, Andrew Scheer, issued the following statement on Yom Kippur:
“This evening at sundown, the Jewish community in Canada and around the world will join together to mark the beginning of Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar.
Yom Kippur marks the end of the High Holy Days. It is a time to focus on repentance and to atone for the sins of the past year. This day of fasting will begin with the Kol Nidrei service, marking the start of a period of reflection, seeking forgiveness for wrong-doings and looking ahead to starting the New Year with a clean slate.
The Jewish community across Canada has played an integral role in all areas of Canadian society. Today, Canada is home to one of the largest and most engaged Jewish populations in the world. On this day, I hope that Canadians take the opportunity to recognize our common values and the immense contributions made by the Jewish community in shaping a more peaceful and prosperous Canada.
On behalf of Canada’s Conservatives, I would like to extend our warmest wishes to the Jewish community here at home and around the world as they observe this sacred fast day.
G’mar Chatima Tovah”