Ottawa, December 23, 2011 – The Honourable Jason Kenney, Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism, issued the following statement in celebration of Christmas:
This Sunday, Canadians across the country will celebrate Christmas with their families, friends, communities, and fellow congregants.
For Christians, there are few days on the calendar more significant and more festive than this annual celebration of the Nativity of Jesus. The holiday, which marks the long-awaited Advent of the Christ, provides Christians an opportunity to reflect on the importance of faith and hope in their lives.
In our peacefully pluralist country, Canadians of many backgrounds celebrate Christmas in countless different ways, incorporating customs that come from their own varied cultures and family traditions. And for all who celebrate, Christmas is a time for joy, goodwill and prayers for peace on earth.
As Minister of Citizenship, Immigration, and Multiculturalism, I extend my warmest wishes for a joyful, peaceful and very Merry Christmas to all Canadians!
For further information (media only), please contact:
Candice Malcolm
Minister’s Office
Citizenship and Immigration Canada
613-954-1064
Media Relations
Communications Branch
Citizenship and Immigration Canada
613-952-1650
CIC-Media-Relations@cic.gc.ca
Building a stronger Canada: Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) strengthens Canada’s economic, social and cultural prosperity, helping ensure Canadian safety and security while managing one of the largest and most generous immigration programs in the world.
