On the evening of December 1, Moscow’s Manezh Square hosted a Chanukah Menorah lighting. The ceremony involved Chief Rabbi of Russia Berel Lazar, FJC Russia Public Relations Head Boruch Gorin, Israeli Ambassador Dorit Golender, and Rabbi Yitzchak Kogan of the Bolshaya Bronnaya Synagogue.
“Chanukah symbolizes the fire that has burned for many centuries in Jewish hearts, which cannot be extinguished by persecution or repression,” said Mr. Gorin upon opening the ceremony.
“The lighting of the Chanukah Menorah in the center of large cities has become a strong tradition in democratic Russia. Chanukah is the only holiday that Jews celebrate in public, outside of the Jewish community, so that the miracle of Chanukah will become known to all,” explained Rabbi Lazar in his speech. “Chanukah symbolizes the victory of the religious, spirited Maccabee soldiers over the material and spiritless army of the Greek-Syrians. This victory symbolizes the victory of light over darkness, and therefore should be widely publicized. Those gathered here on this square have shown the strength of spirit, as did their ancestors. May G-d let the light of Chanukah be in our hearts to give us energy and inspire enthusiasm. G-d willing, may the next Chanukah we celebrate be in Jerusalem in the Third Temple,” concluded Rabbi Lazar.
Israel’s Ambassador to Russia Ms. Golender, also congratulated those present on this occasion and said that for her, it is a personal miracle to participate in this gathering of Jews in Russia. For she immigrated to Israel from Russia many years ago and has now returned as an ambassador.
Rabbi Kogan noted that “the task of Chanukah is to bring more light so as to dispel the darkness” and he encouraged those in attendance to dedicate themselves to this goal.
Following the speeches, Rabbi Lazar lit the first candle of the Chanukah Menorah. The guests of then enjoyed a performance by a children's choir visiting from Israel.