[ROCKWALL, TX] — Chabad of Rockwall County will light a public Hanukkah menorah for the very first time placed at the Rockwall Harbor, on December 13, the fourth night of the eight-day holiday. While the scope of the ceremony will be limited amid Rockwall’s ongoing coronavirus emergency, the lights will shine forth as brightly as ever.
This year’s menorah lighting is done with the recognition of the crucial need for a message of hope during what for many is a very difficult time. Chabad of Rockwall will also distribute menorahs, candles, and Hanukkah-at-home kits to those celebrating at home.
“The menorah serves as a symbol of light and hope for us today amidst the darkness of the pandemic, as it did for generations before us,” said Rabbi Kalmenson. “The flames of the menorah shine out into the night, reminding us that even when confronted with much darkness, a tiny light can dispel it all. Another act of goodness and kindness, another act of light, can make all the difference.”
This year, the holiday has added significance as so many will be isolated at home on Hanukkah amid these difficult times. As the Rebbe—Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, of righteous memory—would often teach, the menorah is a reminder that light can be brought to the darkest of times, and uniquely, at the core of the holiday’s observance is sharing the light with others who may not be experiencing it.
To ensure everyone is safe, the menorah lighting will be contact free, with all participants distanced and wearing masks to ensure the outdoor event is safe. The event will be broadcast live via Facebook @chabadrockwall, so Rockwall County families can share in the celebration from the safety of their home. Following the menorah lighting ceremony, pre-packaged menorah kits and Hanukkah swag bags will be distributed.
The menorah lighting is part of the worldwide Hanukkah campaign launched by the Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, of righteous memory, in 1973. The campaign highlights and encourages the central theme of the holiday—publicizing the story of the Hanukkah miracle and the victory of light, a message of hope greatly needed today. In the decades since the Rebbe’s Hanukkah awareness campaign began, it has revitalized widespread observance of the Festival of Lights.
Visit www.jewishrockwall.com/chanukah to register and learn more.
For more information about Hanukkah and a local schedule of events visit Chabad.org/Hanukkah.
