Premier Christy Clark issued the following statement to mark the start of Yom Kippur:

“Tonight at sundown, Jewish communities in British Columbia will gather in synagogues to mark the start of Yom Kippur, the Jewish Day of Atonement and the holiest day in the Jewish calendar.

“This solemn period of introspection lasts until sundown tomorrow evening. During that time, Jews abstain from food, drink and pleasures while they reflect on the past year, atone for their sins and seek forgiveness from those they have wronged.

“As our Jewish friends and families look forward to entering their New Year with a clean slate, let us all mark this as an opportunity to make amends with our fellow citizens and advance the causes of peace in the year to come.

“On behalf of all British Columbians, I wish everyone observing Yom Kippur an easy and meaningful fast.

“G’mar Chatimah Tovah.”