"I wish an easy and meaningful fast, G'mar chatima tova, to everyone preparing for Yom Kippur this evening.
"Yom Kippur is the holiest day on the Jewish calendar. It is the Day of Atonement, when we both ask forgiveness for ourselves and grant it to others. This call to atone echoes in our lives and communities, urging that we lift one another up in the year ahead. Today and moving forward in the new year, let us carry compassion and empathy as we acknowledge the experiences and challenges of those around us, and grant one another forgiveness in the face of our failings. We are all facing challenges, often unknown to one another, and by extending grace, tolerance, and mercy, we draw closer to our fellow neighbor and to G-d.
"Reconciliation is critical on the path toward healing. May G-d bestow blessings, mercy and absolution on all seeking redemption, and may we all be sealed in the Book of Life."