On Tuesday, Dec. 16, the third night of Chanukah, Chabad of Jacksonville Town Center hosted its 10th annual public menorah lighting and Chanukah celebration at St. Johns Town Center.
This gathering has turned into one of the most anticipated Jewish holiday traditions at the Town Center. The celebration featured the lighting of a 10-foot menorah, traditional holiday songs and fresh latkes.
Rabbi Shmuli Novack is the co-director of Chabad of Jacksonville Town Center. He opened the festivities by welcoming everyone to the event.
“I wasn’t exactly sure what kind of crowd to expect tonight, but you guys are demonstrating with your presence that we’re not afraid,” said Novack.
On Dec. 14, a terrorist attack occurred on Bondi Beach in Australia during a Hanukkah celebration. Several members of the Jewish community lost their lives in the attack including a 10-year-old girl and an 87-year-old Holocaust survivor who died protecting his wife.
“The menorah was first lit during a time of danger and uncertainty. The message of Hanukkah is not to hide,” said Novack.
Everyone in attendance took time to remember the victims and their families with a moment of silence.
Sheriff T.K. Waters was also in attendance and was presented with the Lamplighter Award. This award was presented to him for his dedication in protecting the wellbeing of all Jacksonville residents.
“I love every part of our community,” said Waters.
The tradition of public menorah lightings is part of the worldwide Chanukah campaign, an initiative launched in 1973 by the Rebbe-Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, the most influential rabbi in modern history, to promote awareness and observance of Chanukah.
