RANCHO SANTA FE — The Chabad Jewish Center of Rancho Santa Fe hosted a Communal Hanukkah Celebration on Dec. 22.
More than 50 friends and families gathered at the Fairbanks Ranch Community Clubhouse to feast on everything from latkes to doughnuts.
After the buffet dinner, Rabbi Levi Raskin welcomed those in attendance and, for the benefit of the children, explained the tradition of Hanukkah.
“Instead of one night of celebration, we have eight crazy nights,” he said. “But why is Hanukkah so special?” Raskin briefly explained the concept of bringing light into the darkness with the aid of a big screen video presentation.
Afterward, everyone stood and sang before the Grand Menorah Lighting ceremony took place. Lighting the menorah candle was host Dr. Steve Mannis and it was a poignant moment. Earlier in the day, Mannis’ mother had passed away, so the lighting of the candle was done in her memory. It was truly a moment of light in a time of darkness for Mannis.
Later, the children were treated to Macca Bees, festive Chanukuh gifts, and a grand time was had by all.
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