Rabbi Joui Hessel, VP of Jewish Life at 92Y’s Bronfman Center for Jewish Life, writes:
It is the time when we begin to feel the colder air outside and experience a sunset that occurs earlier each day. We take out our puffy coats, scarves, gloves, and hats and prepare for darker and colder days as winter arrives.
Throughout the generations, the Jewish People have focused on joy, celebrations, and light. Regardless of circumstance, we have always concentrated on finding the light in darkness.
For the past 20 months, darkness has surrounded us with a pandemic causing more deaths than one could imagine. It affected how we interacted with friends and family members, whether schools could be open and if jobs could be saved. All this and so much more.
And yet, the Jewish community once again pivoted away from darkness and toward the light by celebrating births, b’nei mitzvah and (some) weddings. These people, our people, pursued joy and light in our darkened world.
This Chanukkah season, may we set our eyes upon the menorah lights and by doing so, may we be blessed with a Chanukkah that is bright, warm, and joyous.
Amen.
Chanukah Events and Programs
Chanukah Under the Stars
Bundle up and join us on our twinkle-light covered rooftop for a magical candle lighting and concert!
Sun, Dec 5, 4 PM (Sold out) and 5:30 PM, IN PERSON
The Home Project Pre-Chanukah Under the Stars Gathering
With Rabbi Joui Hessel and Rabbinic Intern Evan Traylor
Join Jews of Color and their families for a social gathering on our rooftop playground (yes, in the winter!).
Sun, Dec 5, 3 PM, In PERSON, FREE
From the Elie Wiesel Archive
In a lecture given on the fifth night of the Chanukah, on December 7, 1999 at The 92nd Street Y, Professor Wiesel focuses on the special meaning of light to those who dwell in darkness and on the special role of giving thanks during the holidays of Chanukah and Purim.
Watch the recording