New York, NY - Today, Congressman Charles B. Rangel issued the following statement in recognition Yom Kippur, which began on sundown on Tuesday, September 25, and ends at nightfall on Wednesday, September 26, 2012:

“I join my Jewish friends in celebrating Yom Kippur, the holiest day of the year that marks the end of the ten "High Holy Days" that began last week with Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year. Also known as the Day of Atonement, Yom Kippur is a time to reflect on the mistakes made over the last year, ask God for forgiveness, and remember the loved ones they have lost.

This is also a time to celebrate the successes that the Jewish community have achieved together and continue toward building a better future. I am proud to represent a congressional district with a strong and vibrant Jewish community that adds to the unique culture of New York City. Our City is home to over 1,000 synagogues and many excellent Jewish colleges, such as The Jewish Theological Seminary, Yeshiva University, and Touro College. I have had the pleasure of working with and meeting many of the City's rabbis, community leaders and many of the talented students at these schools.  I thank them for the great contributions they make to our City, State and Nation.

I offer my warmest blessings to everyone on this important day. G'mar Chatima Tova.”