PRIME Minister Justin Trudeau on Sunday issued the following statement on Easter:

“Today, my family and I join millions of people in Canada and around the world to celebrate Easter.

“Easter Sunday is one of the holiest days of the Christian calendar, where families and loved ones come together to commemorate the resurrection of Jesus Christ and the promise of eternal life. It is a time to rejoice in his teachings of love, forgiveness, and compassion. Christians celebrate rebirth and new beginnings, symbolized by colourful Easter eggs and the blooming of spring flowers.

“This holiday is a joyful occasion, an opportunity to give thanks for our blessings and to reflect on our shared values of resilience, hope, and peace. Today and every day, we recognize the countless Canadians of Christian faith who share this joy and hope by showing compassion for those in need in our communities.

“As we celebrate with our family, Sophie and I wish all those celebrating a happy and blessed Easter.”

B.C. PREMIER David Eby said in a statement:

“People in British Columbia and around the world are coming together this weekend to celebrate Easter, a holiday that represents life, rebirth and hope for the future.

“Easter is at the heart of Christianity. Followers of the faith celebrate Jesus Christ’s resurrection from the dead after his crucifixion, which comes with a powerful message of redemption.

“We reflect on the universal values of Christianity – peace, love, joy and kindness – and look for ways to incorporate those values into our daily lives.

“For many people, this is also a time to welcome longer and brighter days, and even a visit from the Easter bunny.

“This weekend, my wife Cailey and I will be busy hiding Easter eggs for our kids, Iva and Ezra, and then sitting back and watching their joy as they fill their baskets.

“Easter’s message of hope for the brighter days ahead really resonates with me this year, as we emerge from the pandemic. Our government is committed to a British Columbia where everyone can build a good life, with strong connections to family and community.

“Whether you’re having an Easter egg hunt of your own, attending a special church service or enjoying a meal with friends and family, I wish you a wonderful Easter.”

CONSERVATIVE Party Leader Pierre Poilievre released the following statement:

“Today, Christians in Canada and around the world celebrate the glory of the Resurrection.

“Upon his death, Jesus’ body was laid in a tomb guarded by Roman soldiers. Yet, His body would not remain in the grave. The sinless Saviour, who had mercifully taken upon Himself the sins of the world, would overcome the grave and emerge triumphant over sin and death.

“This is the hope for billions of people worldwide – that the ultimate victory over evil has been forever secured. Christ has delivered salvation to the world and brought the promise of eternal peace and renewal. Today, Christians around the world gather to celebrate this ‘good news.’

“For others from different backgrounds and traditions, the Easter season is often a time of rest and comfort as we gather with family and friends to welcome the coming of Spring. It is a time of new beginnings and renewed hope for the future.

“No matter how you celebrate this weekend, whether you’re gathered in prayer and worship with your church family, hunting for Easter eggs, or simply gathered with loved ones for a time of rest and reflection, from my family to yours, I wish you a very happy Easter.”

FEDERAL NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh made the following statement:

“On behalf of all New Democrats I’m sending my best wishes to all those observing Good Friday and celebrating Easter this weekend.

This is a time where families and loved ones can come together to celebrate with one another. It’s also a time for Christians to reflect on sacrifice and compassion.

For many people in our country, this marks a moment for new beginnings, to celebrate the changing seasons, and a time of renewed hope for the future. I’m wishing all Canadians a weekend filled with family and joy for you and your loved ones.

Happy Easter!”