While the festivities this holiday season may have felt at odds with our grief with the ongoing crisis in Israel – Chanukah, at its very core, is about Jewish survival. Despite all odds, the Jewish people have continued to persevere and in spite of our unimaginable trauma, we boldly and defiantly uphold the Jewish value of simcha – joy.
Over these eight days, the Jewish community of Greater Philadelphia came together to lean on one another for strength and support, as has been done for generations. Through this unity, families and neighbors were able to embrace the light of Chanukah and find meaning and connection during these eight nights.
From candle lightings and crafts to interfaith demonstrations against antisemitism, the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia hosted and partnered on numerous events to brighten these dark times.
On December 10, faith groups joined together at Congregation Rodeph Shalom to stand against hate and stand with Israel and for humanity at the Israeli American Council’s Solidarity Rally Against Antisemitism, which the Jewish Federation partnered on. Coinciding with the fourth night of Chanukah, this demonstration of shared values and strength showed that the power of unity and peace will always triumph against antisemitism, hatred and terror.
The Jewish Federation's Jewish Community Relations Council and Buxmont Kehillah and the Wissahickon interfaith community at the Ambler Church of the Brethren also convened on December 10 for a candle lighting in solidarity with the Jewish community. This program featured remarks from different faith leaders, songs and a Chanukah candle lighting.
At The Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History on December 10, families enjoyed crafts and candle lighting at a Chanukah celebration hosted by the Jewish Federation’s Center City Kehillah and jkidphilly.
On December 12, community members joined the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia, Temple Sinai and the Buxmont Kehillah for Bringing Light to Shadow: Lone Soldiers During War. During this awareness event, attendees heard from lone soldier Noach about his experience and how the Lone Soldier Center in Memory of Michael Levin provides a home away from home. A selection of songs were performed by Yair Nitzani, a renowned Israeli musician, TV host and journalist, who spoke about his experience adopting an Israeli lone soldier.
On December 13, families enjoyed a Chanukah celebration at KleinLife hosted by the Jewish Federation’s Northeast Kehillah and other community partners. The evening featured candle lighting, crafts, games and a kosher dinner provided by House of Kosher.
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Looking for ways to continue brightening the community and fighting against antisemitism? Learn more here: jewishphilly.org/advocate
