Prime Minister Stephen Harper today issued the following statement on the Christmas season:
“This Christmas, we Canadians have many reasons to celebrate.
“We live in a beautiful country, a compassionate country, a prosperous country.
“Despite the difficulties elsewhere in the world, Canada’s economy is getting ever stronger, and more Canadians have more opportunities and better jobs than ever before.
“Importantly, around the world our country is also known for doing what is good and right, and for protecting the vulnerable, promoting peace, and defending the freedom of all people.
“Amid all the festivities, please say a prayer of thanks for the brave men and women in uniform, who serve this Christmas in harm’s way, especially those fighting the terrorists of the so-called Islamic State.
“In our abundance, and in the spirit of Christmas, I’d also ask you to show kindness to the less fortunate.
“And as you gather with friends and family, may you be filled with love, joy, peace and most of all, hope for the future.
“On behalf of the Government of Canada and from my family to yours, Merry Christmas, Happy Chanukah and Season’s Greetings.”