Ottawa, ON — The Hon. Pierre Poilievre, Leader of the Conservative Party of Canada and the Official Opposition, released the following statement on Yom Kippur:

“This evening marks the beginning of Yom Kippur – the Day of Atonement and the holiest day of the Jewish year. As they reflect on the faithfulness and mercy of the Creator, Jewish Canadians will be gathering together in their homes and synagogues with a spirit of reverent worship.

“On Yom Kippur, Jews take comfort in the knowledge of God’s unfailing forgiveness and in the assurance that their names have been sealed in the Book of Life. Yom Kippur is also a time of renewal, as Jews seek reconciliation with friends and family members, and take steps to bring wholeness to all of their relationships.

“For the past ten days, Jews have been preparing their hearts for this special occasion and meditating on God’s promises. To everyone celebrating today, as you fast and pray over the next twenty-five hours, may you be filled with a sense of God’s gracious mercy and overflowing love.

“G’mar chatima tova.”