The Beach Hebrew Institute along with the Chabad Jewish Centre hosted a Menorah Candle Lighting ceremony in recognition of Hanukkah on the night of Saturday, Dec. 8, at Kew Gardens in the Beach.
A good-sized crowd turned out for the event which featured the lighting of the Menorah by Rabbi Sholom Lezell along with some singing.
“We started here about six years ago, and the lighting of the Menorah represents how we turn darkness into light,” he said.
Traditionally a new lamp is lit each night during the eight days that Hanukkah is celebrated. This year, those eight days run from Dec.2 to Monday, Dec. 10, so tonight is the final night. The Menorah traditionally stands as a symbol of light, wisdom and divine inspiration during this dark time of the year.
At the ceremony, Susan Litchen of the Beach Hebrew Institute (Beaches Shul) led a group of youngsters in traditional songs. A longtime local resident, Litchen said that in 2019, the Beach Hebrew Institute on Kenilworth Avenue will celebrate its 100th year in the community.
The Menorah lighting was followed by a Latke Fest at the Institute.
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