Sacramento’s Jewish community recently gathered at the state Capitol to celebrate the second night of Hanukkah in a poignant ceremony filled with emotion and solidarity. This year, however, their celebration was deeply intertwined with mourning due to a horrific tragedy in Sydney, Australia, where a father and son perpetrated a terror attack during a Hanukkah event, resulting in the loss of 15 lives.
Rabbi Mendy Cohen, who organized the local menorah lighting, shared his personal heartbreak, having lost Rabbi Eli Schlanger—a family friend and well-respected supportive pillar within the community. Cohen’s heartfelt remarks resonated with attendees, who reflected on the importance of supporting one another and maintaining faith in the face of evil.
Despite the surrounding fears of anti-Semitic violence, community members shared their determination not to be silenced or held back. Attendees, including Pearl Koven and Amaya McLaurin, spoke passionately about practicing their faith freely and lighting up the darkness with acts of kindness. This year’s menorah lighting turned into a powerful symbol of resilience, reminding everyone that in times of peril, compassion can shine through even the darkest moments.
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Andrew Johnson
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