Guelph's Jewish community invites everyone to attend the lighting of a giant nine-foot menorah Sunday to mark the beginning of Hanukkah.
The free event takes place Sunday, Dec. 2, inside Guelph City Hall beginning at 5:30 p.m.
The event is being hosted by Chabad of Guelph and Beth Isaiah Synagogue.
Mayor Cam Guthrie, MP Lloyd Longfield, and MPP Mike Schreiner will all be in attendance.
Following the menorah lighting ceremony attendees will be treated to Chanukah delicacies, including latkas (potato pancakes), donuts, and chocolate coins, as well as crafts and activities for the kids, like cookie decorating and the making of Chanukah dreidels, says a news release.
“The menorah serves as a symbol of Guelph's dedication to preserve and encourage the right and liberty of all its citizens to worship G‑d freely, openly, and with pride. Specifically in Canada, a nation that was founded upon and vigorously protects the right of every person to practice his or her religion free from restraint and persecution.” said organizer Rabbi Raphi Steiner.
“The message of Hanukkah is the message of light,” added Rabbi Steiner. “The nature of light is that it is always victorious over darkness. A small amount of light dispels a lot of darkness. Another act of goodness and kindness, another act of light, can make all the difference.”
