Merrick-Bellmore community event inspires finding light amid dark times

Last week, hundreds gathered for a joyous closure to the Hanukkah season at the Merrick Jewish Centre. Joined by Congregation Beth Ohr in Bellmore and Temple Beth Am of Merrick & Bellmore, the Jewish community gathered to light their menorahs, listen to and sing holiday music, and catch gelt — chocolate gold coins — off of a fire truck.

“At this time in our lives and at this time in the world around us, there is a lot of darkness,” Rabbi Josh Dorsch of the Merrick Jewish Centre said. “I can’t think of anything more beautiful and more inspiring than coming together and adding a little light into our world, because we know all it takes is a little bit of light to catch out a lot of darkness.”

On the shul, alongside the Merrick Jewish Centre’s massive menorah, there were 135 candles. Dorsch was joined by Howard Tiegel, president of the Merrick Jewish Centre, Joe Weisbord, president of Congregation Beth Ohr, and Rob Stolberg, co-president of Temple Beth Am of Merrick and Bellmore, to light each candle.

“We have 135 candles, one candle for each hostage, that is obviously unable to light Hanukkah candles themselves,” Dorsch said of the number. “It’s out hope that we will light for them and we will ensure that their light continues to shine and stays in our hearts.”

Afterwards, sixth-grade students in Hebrew School went up on the shul, and led by Cantor Benjamin Warschawski, performed Hanukkah songs, which brought many attendees to their feet. Those in attendance also sang “Hatikvah,” the Israeli national anthem, in solidarity with the State of Israel, amid the ongoing war in the Middle East.

Then, to the surprise of many, the Long Island Ducks mascot “Quackerjack” made a grand appearance, ready to take photos with children, families and clergy.

Community members were able to bring menorahs from home, and following blessings said by Dorsch and Rabbi Rishe Groner of Congregation Beth Ohr, the Merrick Jewish Centre’s menorah was lit, alongside everyone’s menorahs from home.

A highlight of Hanukkah celebrations at the Merrick Jewish Centre include the annual gelt drop. The Merrick Fire Department arrived at the synagogue, and outside, Dorsch climbed on top of the truck, and tossed hundreds of pieces of chocolate to eager crowds below. Among the gold coins, five were wrapped in silver. Children that found those pieces were able to turn theirs in for a special prize once indoors.

Light refreshments were served, including a delicious array or donut holes — a staple during Hanukkah — and hot chocolate as well.

The evening served as a wonderful showing of Jewish pride, heritage and traditions. For more on upcoming programs at any of the synagogues, visit MerrickJC.org., CBOhr.org or TempleBethAmMerrick.org.