Roughly 200 members of the Merrick Jewish Centre community gathered Dec. 17 for a Festival of Light celebration organized by the MJC Men’s Club and Hebrew School, coming together for an evening of Hanukkah observance, reflection and communal connection.
The event filled the synagogue with candlelight as families, students and congregants of all ages lit menorahs together, shared traditional foods and participated in activities designed to highlight the themes of unity and resilience central to the holiday. The program included latkes, hot chocolate, an annual gelt drop for children and a Rabbi’s Roundtable discussion focused on the meaning and symbolism of Hanukkah.
Rabbi Josh Dorsch said the timing of Hanukkah, during the darkest and coldest time of the year, underscored the importance of gathering as a community.
“It’s no coincidence that Hanukkah takes place during the darkest and coldest time of the year,” Dorsch said. “That’s why we gathered together as a community, to bring warmth and joy and lights into our lives and the world around us.”
Dorsch noted that Hanukkah is often referred to as the holiday of miracles, pointing not only to the story of the oil lasting eight days and the Maccabees’ military victory, but also to Jewish survival through centuries of adversity.
“Especially in the wake of the tragedy that took place in Australia, Hanukkah reminds us of one of the greatest miracles of all — that given the arc of Jewish history, we Jews are still here,” he said. “Hanukkah encourages us to loudly and proudly publicize that miracle.”
Darren Bleier, co-chair of the Merrick Jewish Centre School Board, said the Festival of Light reflected the synagogue’s commitment to fostering a welcoming and engaged community.
“We are so fortunate to have such a large, diverse, vibrant and welcoming synagogue community and Hebrew School,” Bleier said, crediting Rabbi Dorsch, staff and lay leadership for creating a space that serves members from early childhood through adulthood.
Joshua Diamond, president of the MJC Men’s Club, said the group organized the event as part of its mission to strengthen communal bonds.
“The Merrick Jewish Centre Men’s Club strives to create a strong Jewish community and organize and support programs where all within the MJC community can participate,” Diamond said. “We look forward to growing this event year after year.”
The celebration was also livestreamed for those unable to attend in person, allowing members to participate remotely while maintaining a shared sense of connection and celebration.
