Susan Mackler tries on a pair of special glasses that show the Star of David when looking at the menorah candles during a Hanukkah celebration at the Boys and Girls Club Dec. 23. (Photo by Hope E. Tremblay)
WESTFIELD – Congregation Ahavas Achim was joined by members of the community Dec. 23 in celebrating Hanukkah and lighting the Grand Menorah at Park Square Green.
Cantor Colman Reaboi spoke about the meaning of Hanukkah, also spelled Chanukah, which is a Jewish festival to celebrate the rededication of the Holy Temple of Jerusalem during a time of a revolt against religious oppression in Israel led by Judah Maccabee.
Reaboi spoke of the miracles of Hanukkah, particularly the miracle of the oil that should have lasted Maccabee and his supporters for one day but produced light for eight nights.
The menorah has eight candles, plus the shamash, which is the candle from which the others are lit.
Reaboi encouraged everyone to be a shamash and help others find their light.
“God has given us a spark of light so that we can turn that spark into flames,” said Reaboi. “Be a shamash – be the support that someone needs.”
He said while Hanukkah is celebrated by Jews, the menorah is a reminder for all people to shine.
“That light wasn’t just for Jews, that light was for the world,” Reaboi said. “We are all vessels of light and it is in the broken vessels where we see the light.”
Acting Mayor Ralph J. Figy lights the Grand Menorah on Park Square Green Dec. 23. (Photo by Hope E. Tremblay)
Acting Mayor Ralph J. Figy lit the Grand Menorah lights and reflected on the events he has celebrated since becoming acting mayor in October.
“This is one of the things that make me proud as acting mayor,” he said. “These events bring people together.”
Following the ceremony, which included prayers in Hebrew and singing, a celebration was hosted at the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Westfield. Latkes were served, which are a traditional Hanukkah treat. Other foods cooked in oil, such as Sufganiyot, a donut, are also eaten to remind everyone of the miracle of the oil. Kugel, a noodle pudding, was served along with other treats.
The last night of Hanukkah this year is Dec. 30.
