Video: Justin Trudeau mentions Fort McMurray fire and Syrian refugees in annual Christmas message

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's office has posted his annual Christmas message on YouTube. (See below.)

“The holiday season is truly my favourite time of the year," he said. "As we come together with loved ones, let us reflect on how fortunate we are to call this beautiful country home.

“Living in Canada comes with a responsibility to be there for each other—and not just during this time of year, but each and every day," Trudeau continued. "After all, Canadians helping others—no matter the distance that separates them—is what this country is all about."

He cited Canadians' eagernes to assist fire-ravaged Fort McMurray and Syrian refugees as two such examples.

“I also ask you take a moment to remember the brave women and men of the Canadian Armed Forces—and their families—who make incredible sacrifices to protect our country," Trudeau said.

The prime minister issued a separate statement on the first day of Hanukkah.

“At sunset today, the Jewish community in Canada and around the world will welcome the beginning of Hanukkah, the 8-day Festival of Lights," he said. “Hanukkah commemorates the struggle of the Jewish people to overcome adversity, and to find light in times of unspeakable suffering. It teaches us that peace can reign triumphant and that, by working together, we can build a brighter, better world for ourselves and our children."

B.C. premier Christy Clark issued a written Christmas message earlier today but so far, there's no video on YouTube.

"This Christmas, in communities throughout British Columbia, homes will be filled with warmth, love, and the spirit of giving," Clark said. "For many of us, Christmas is the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, the only Son of God. For all of us, the holiday season is a chance to spend time with the people we love.

"However you choose to celebrate the season, we can best honour the spirit of Christmas by remembering the less fortunate—our neighbours who struggle to make ends meet, or put a roof over their children's heads. If you have the time or money to lend a helping hand, you can make a tremendous difference in someone's life," she continued. "From my family to yours, I wish all British Columbians a Merry Christmas, happy holidays, and a very happy 2017."