Hoyer Statement on Rosh Hashanah

“I join in wishing a sweet and joyous new year to all those gathering tonight with family and friends across America, in Israel, and around the world to celebrate Rosh Hashanah.  I also send my special new year greetings to all the U.S. servicemen and women who are observing the holiday while stationed overseas in defense of our nation and its values. 

“On Friday, I returned from Jerusalem, where I stood on Mt. Herzl and paid my final farewell to former President Shimon Peres as the country he served so faithfully prepared to usher in the new year amid the period of mourning for one of its greatest leaders.  I am reminded of something President Peres said when he accepted the Nobel Peace Prize in 1994.  He declared: ‘A man may feel as old as his years, yet as young as his dreams.’  The Jewish people have a long history, marked by times of triumph and times of tragedy, yet with visionary dreamers like Shimon Peres, it is a nation whose years are still young, looking ever forward into a future full of hope.  It is that history and hopeful spirit that continues to inspire America and the world. 

“As the year 5777 begins, I share my own hopes and prayers for a year of new beginnings, new opportunities, and new causes for celebration.  May it be one of peace and plenty, with joy resonating as powerfully as the sound of the shofar.  Shana Tova U’Metuka.”