Statement from Premier Pillai on Yom Kippur

Premier Ranj Pillai has issued the following statement:

“This Sunday at sunset, the Yukon’s Jewish community will join Jewish communities across Canada and around the world to begin the observance of Yom Kippur, the Day of the Atonement and the most solemn and holy day in Judaism.

“Yom Kippur is a 25-hour period of fasting and prayer, marking the end of the 10-day High Holy Days. This period is a time for repentance, self-examination and atonement, and for seeking reconciliation in preparation for the year to come.

“According to the Talmud, the High Holy Day period between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur is a time to atone for sins against people, while Yom Kippur is an opportunity to atone for sins against God. It is a day of creating community, abandoning jealousy and strife, and emphasizing love and solidarity for the year to come. A long blast of the shofar, an instrument made from a rams’ horn, will signify the end of the holiday.

“Gmar tov to everyone observing Yom Kippur. I wish you all an easy and meaningful fast, and a rich and reflective day of prayer.”