For the 12 day period of the Festival of Ridvan, the Premier of Ontario issued a personal statement to the Baha’i Community, recognizing the significance of these holy days, and expressing an appreciation for the Baha’i community in that province. The text and a photo of the greeting are included here.
“On behalf of the Government of Ontario, I am delighted to extend warm greetings to members of the Bahá’í community as you celebrate the Festival of Ridván.
This occasion brings the community together to mark Bahá’u’lláh’s first public declaration of his station as a Manifestation of God, and to commemorate the 12 days he spent in the Garden of Ridván. It is also a time to reflect on Bahá’u’lláh’s teachings on the unity and oneness of religion and of humanity.
I want to take this opportunity to pay tribute to the Bahá’í community in Ontario. The members of this diverse and dynamic community are an integral part of our multicultural success story, and they continue to make Ontario an even better place to live. I am grateful for their many enduring contributions to the social, economic and cultural life of our province.
I offer my sincere best wishes for a joyous and inspiring celebration of Ridván.
Kathleen Wynne
Premier”