Pesach greetings from Canberra

Prime Minister Julia Gillard

IT is with great pleasure that I send my best wishes to everyone celebrating Passover this year.

The story of the Exodus, of the ancient Israelites being freed from slavery, is thousands of years old. Over the centuries, and particularly in modern times, it is a story that has resonated with all oppressed people who seek to rise up in search of freedom and a better future. Passover is a universal tale of liberation.

But Passover is especially the time for Jewish people everywhere to renew their faith and celebrate with family and friends; to participate in the seder’s magnificent rituals and teachings, retelling the story of the Exodus and asking the four questions; and perhaps to enjoy the traditional foods associated with the feast of the holiday.

For the Australian community, it is an opportunity to pay tribute to Jewish Australians for all they have done to shape our modern, vibrant nation and to reinforce the strong bond of friendship forged between Australia and Israel over 65 years.

So to all our Jewish friends, in Australia and around the world, I wish you a happy holiday – a chag sameach!

Leader of the Opposition Tony Abbott

I AM very pleased to send my best wishes to the Jewish community as you celebrate Passover.

Passover is an important celebration. In particular, it is a time to reflect on the Passover story – the freedom of the ancient Israelites from slavery.

As members of the Jewish community mark Passover this year, it is a chance to recognise the immense contribution Jewish Australians have made to our country in so many fields of endeavour.

As is often noted, Australia is the only country, other than Israel, to have had a Jewish head of state, chief justice and commander of the army.

I extend my warmest wishes to the readers of the Australian Jewish News for your Passover celebrations this year.

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