He said: “I have always been moved by the Passover story of the Israelite escape from enslavement. It is a universal message of the struggle for liberation, and one that continues to inspire many who fight for justice and equality all over the world.
Tim Farron, leader of the Liberal Democrats, compared the Exodus story to the plight of refugees today, in his message.
He said: “Passover is a time when Jews remember what it is like to be “strangers in a strange land.” The festival records how a people - the Jewish people - flee for their lives undertaking a hazardous journey and eventually finding redemption.
“Today, we should remember the plight of the thousands of modern day refugees who have once again been forced to flee for their lives to seek a new home in Europe. They have been driven from their homes by war and terror and discrimination, and yet we have it in our hands to offer them redemption too.”
Prime Minister David Cameron
“As you gather with your families for the start of Pesach, I’m delighted to send my sincerest good wishes, and my hope that you’ll enjoy a happy and peaceful Passover.
“This is, in particular, a time for family – a time when the youngest child asks the four questions, before parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles retell the story of the exodus from Egypt, and the transition from slavery to freedom.
“This transition from slavery gave the Children of Israel the freedom to serve God. Over generations, I believe that’s what we’ve built in Britain – a successful multi-racial, multi-faith democracy, where people are free to follow their faith and practise their rituals.
“As Jewish communities unite to celebrate the festival of Passover, our thoughts will turn to the increasing number of abhorrent anti-Semitic attacks over the past year. Jewish communities, wherever in the world they are, must not be left to live in fear. Sadly, even here in the UK, we still see cases of anti-Semitic abuse. I am determined to do everything in my power to stamp it out. Part of that is remembering the horror of the Holocaust, because to ignore history is to risk repeating it.
“Day in, day out, the Jewish community proves that you’re a true British success story, excelling in every field and working constantly to build a fairer society for everyone.
“So once again, let me wish you and your family a Chag Kasher V’Sameach.”
Jeremy Corbyn, Labour leader
“I would like to send my warmest regards to Jewish communities all over Britain who are preparing for the Pesach holiday.
I have always been moved by the Passover story of the Israelite escape from enslavement. It is a universal message of the struggle for liberation, and one that continues to inspire many who fight for justice and equality all over the world.
The 19th century Rabbi of the North London Synagogue, Joseph Morris, summed up its meaning when he said: “Passover affirms the great truth that liberty is the inalienable right of every human being.”
That is the message I will be thinking of over the Pesach holiday. I believe it is an aim and a principle that every one of us can support and cherish.
I would like to wish you all Chag Kasher Vesameach.”
Tim Farron, Liberal Democrat Leader
“Passover is a time when Jews remember what it is like to be “strangers in a strange land.” The festival records how a people - the Jewish people - flee for their lives undertaking a hazardous journey and eventually finding redemption.
“Today, we should remember the plight of the thousands of modern day refugees who have once again been forced to flee for their lives to seek a new home in Europe. They have been driven from their homes by war and terror and discrimination, and yet we have it in our hands to offer them redemption too.
“The record of the Jewish people serves as a reminder that when we welcome those that have been 'wanderers in the desert' with an outstretched hand they have so much potential to contribute to our community - socially, culturally and economically.
“So let us all at this time embrace the generosity of spirit which is at the heart of every seder meal which begins "let all who are hungry come and eat; and let all who are in need share our Passover."
“And in that same spirit we hope and pray for peace in Israel and across the Middle East so that all can celebrate the Passover in freedom and security.
“I wish everyone a Chag Pesach Sameach.”
