On October 23, 2023, I had the honor of joining with residents of Easton to together pray for peace and find comfort in one another’s presence. We had just witnessed a horrific terrorist attack on Israeli soil, and American Jews began seeing a rise in antisemitic incidents across the country in response.
Together huddled under the gazebo, with the incredible open sky above us, we sang the words written by Rabbi Menachem Creditor, “We will build this world from love.” As we finished singing, a woman lit a single candle and placed it in the center of the circle. The incredible power of light to offer comfort and hope, even in some of the most difficult times.
As we look ahead to the festival of Chanukah, which begins this week, we too think about the incredible power of light during what still remains a difficult time for so many. I have spoken with members of our Jewish community who worry about the rise in antisemitic acts, especially on college campuses across the country.
At the time of writing this article, hostages still remain in Hamas’ captivity and we continue to pray for their safe return home. We too painfully carry the losses of Palestinian children and civilians suffered in the throes of this war. I have not met or spoken with one person who has not in some way been affected or impacted by what is happening right now in Israel and Gaza.
Chanukah arrives just in time to offer us some much needed light, hope, and comfort at this moment in history. Beginning on Thursday night, December 7, Jewish people across the world will begin lighting the Chanukah menorah, both in their homes and often publicly in town squares and centers.
Each night we add one candle until we reach eight. I personally love that moment each year when all our family menorahs (we have amassed quite a few over the years) burn brightly and illuminate the room. I think about the symbolism of that light, especially this year as so many of us seek a deeper sense of comfort and hope.
And I do feel hope, even in the midst of a very difficult war. Over the past two months I have met with Jewish communities, Christian communities, and Muslim communities. So many people are asking how they can help. Or what they can do to stand up to antisemitism, Islamophobia, and hate. There is so much light right here in our own community.
I encourage us all, throughout the eight days of Chanukah, to think about how we can continue to be that light in the world and to one another. How can we each reflect the eight candles of Chanukah and offer hope and comfort to those struggling at this time of year?
We can be that light by continuing to reach out to our neighbors and check in, especially our Jewish friends, many of whom have friends and relatives in Israel. Check in with Jewish college kids and ask if they want to talk about what they’re seeing on campus. Find ways to volunteer locally during this holiday season to continue to bring that light here to our community.
I wish you a very Happy Chanukah! I pray we all find that light, hope, and comfort, and offer that light to one another in this festival season. May we together build this world from love.
