WASHINGTON, DC — U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA), Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Near Eastern and South and Central Asian Affairs, released the following statement on Rosh Hashanah:
“Rosh Hashanah marks the start of the new year in the Hebrew calendar and the birth of the world. It is a time for spiritual reflection and celebration with family and friends. It is a time for repentance, a time to pray and a time to recommit to helping those in need.
“Today, more than ever, we should all recommit ourselves to the values celebrated on Rosh Hashanah. Too many of our friends and neighbors are out of work and struggling to feed their families. Many in Pennsylvania have suffered devastating destruction due to the recent storms. As we reflect on renewal during this Jewish New Year, I hope that we can find it within ourselves to extend a hand to our neighbors and others during their critical hour of need.
“I also hope that this new year will bring a lasting peace to the state of Israel. May the new year bring renewed commitment to peace negotiations that lead to a mutually agreed upon resolution where Israelis and Palestinians live side by side in two states, in peace and security.
“I am proud to represent the Jewish community in Pennsylvania. During this time of reflection and hope for the new year, I applaud your commitment to the values of justice, community, and charity that are the foundations of the Jewish faith. L'Shanah Tovah Tikatevu.”
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