Thursday, January 16, 2025
The Jewish community of came together to celebrate Hanukkah with nightly public menorah lightings hosted by the East Meadow Beth-El Jewish Center from Dec. 25 to Jan. 1.
The East Meadow Beth-El Jewish Center was formed in a merger between the East Meadow Jewish Center and the former Temple Beth-El of Bellmore. It serves residents from East Meadow, Bellmore and Merrick.
Hanukkah, known as the Festival of Lights, commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem after the Maccabean Revolt. Central to the holiday is the miracle of the oil, which, despite being enough for just one day, burned for eight, symbolizing faith and perseverance.
Each evening, community members gathered outdoors to light the menorah, a tradition that highlights unity and the spreading of light in the face of darkness. The celebration culminated on the final night with a gathering at the synagogue, where families enjoyed treats, light refreshments, and the joy of being together.
The nightly celebrations emphasized the importance of coming together as a community to honor tradition and share in the spirit of the holiday season.
— Jordan Vallone
