Dear Friends,

We are absolutely shocked and devastated by devastating news from Australia of a horrific terrorist attack that took place earlier today at a public Chanukah Menorah lighting hosted by Chabad in Bondi Beach, Sydney, Australia.

The entire Jewish world is in shock and mourning. Our hearts ache for the families of the victims, for the wounded, and for the Jewish community of Sydney. We say Tehillim- Psalms, we pray for healing, and we cry out together: enough of this darkness. This act of hatred was aimed not only at innocent people, but at the very idea of Jewish light, Jewish presence, and Jewish pride. It is chilling to realize that this senseless violence, the horrific attack that took place in Bondi Beach, was intended to disrupt what should have been the first public Menorah lighting in the world this Chanukah. It was meant to spread fear, to make Jews hesitate before gathering, singing, or shining openly.

And yet, the message of Chanukah could not be clearer.

Our response to darkness and evil is more light.
Our response to fear is unity and strength.
Our response to hatred is Jewish pride, joy, and action.

In the teachings of the Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, who pioneered public Menorah lightings around the world, we state clearly and unequivocally:

Our Chanukah celebrations will continue, with strength, dignity, and resolve.

We WILL light the menorah in their memory and honor.
We WILL celebrate Chanukah in their memory and honor.
We WILL do a Mitzvah in their memory and honor.

Bring yourselves, your family’s and your friends to the menorah lighting tonight and proudly display Jewish pride.
Light always dispels darkness.

I spoke to our Richmond Police Chief Timmons this morning and we will have a police presence at the menorah lighting to ensure safety and security for the event.

Am Yisroel Chai! Happy Chanukah!

Rabbi Yitzchok Wagner

With hope and prayers that we merit to celebrate a Chanukah filled with the light of the Menorah of the Holy Temple with the coming of Moshaich Now!
 

Chanukah Menorah Lighting
TODAY: Sunday December 14  4:30 pm