Statement from Premier Pillai on Yom Kippur

Premier Ranj Pillai has issued the following statement:

“This Friday at sunset, Jewish communities here in the Yukon, in Canada and around the world will begin the observance of Yom Kippur – the Day of Atonement and the holiest day in Judaism.

“Yom Kippur is marked by a 25-hour period of fasting and prayer, bringing a close to the 10-day High Holy Days. This sacred time is dedicated to reflection, repentance and atonement, as people seek reconciliation and prepare for the year ahead.

“According to the Talmud, the period between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur is focused on atoning for wrongs committed against others, while Yom Kippur is a day to seek forgiveness from God. It is a time for building community, letting go of jealousy and conflict and embracing love and unity for the future. The sound of the shofar, a ram’s horn, signals the end of the observance.

“To all who are observing Yom Kippur, gmar tov. May you have an easy and meaningful fast and a day filled with deep reflection and prayer.”