Jewish Australians celebrate two festivals in September
18 September 2009
Jewish Australians will celebrate the festivals of Rosh Hashanah on September 18 and Yom Kippur on September 27, the Parliamentary Secretary for Multicultural Affairs and Settlement Services, Laurie Ferguson, said today.
Mr Ferguson sent his best wishes to the Jewish community for both celebrations, which are major events in the lives of more than 88 000 Jewish Australians.
Rosh Hashanah – the Feast of the Trumpets which marks the creation of the world – will begin at sundown tomorrow. It is proclaimed by the blowing of a ram's horn, or shofar,to summon people to religious services.
Rosh Hashanah marks the beginning of the Days of Awe, devoted to introspection, repentance and atonement for sin.
The festival of Yom Kippur begins at sunset on September 27, and marks the end of 10 days of repentance and a time of reflection. Yom Kippur is the most solemn day on the Jewish calendar.
Mr Ferguson acknowledged the significant contribution of Jewish Australians.
'Since the beginnings of European settlement in Australia, Jewish Australians have played a prominent role in every aspect of public life, including politics, business and the arts,' Mr Ferguson said.
'I send my best wishes to all Jewish Australians as they celebrate these festivals.'Media contact: Carla Wilshire 0432 755 935
URL: http://www.minister.immi.gov.au
/parlsec/media/media-releases/2009/lf09045.htm
Last update: 18 September 2009 at 10:09 AEST