Back


Woodbridge News

Print this Page

November 30, 2004

Town Hall Ceremony Recalls Bravery, Dedication to Faith

Woodbridge Township will help celebrate the Chanukah season with its annual Menorah Lighting on Wednesday, Dec. 8 at 5 p.m., Mayor Frank G. Pelzman has announced.

The ceremony will take place on the steps of Woodbridge Town Hall at 1 Main Street. There will be refreshments and gifts (traditional dreidels and gelt) for the children on the 2 nd floor atrium of Town Hall after the ceremony.

“The lighting of our Menorah is always a delightful event, filled with all the joy and meaning of the holidays,” said the Mayor. “I invite our residents to join us that night and be part of the celebration.”

Mayor Pelzman will host the event. Rabbi Milton Kula of Congregation Adath Israel will give a talk on the meaning of Chanukah, and music will be provided by students at the Congregation’s Regional Conservative Hebrew School.

Chanukah, the Hebrew word meaning “ dedication”, is celebrated for eight days in the Hebrew month of Kislev, which usually occurs in mid to late December. Known as “the feast of lights”, Chanukah recalls the struggle for religious freedom and commemorates the victory of the Jews over their Greek-Syrian overlords in 165 BCE.

“Chanukah remembers soldiers who fought for a cause,” said Councilwoman Caroline Ehrlich. “It is a holiday that takes on even greater significance this year, with so many of our service men and women away from home.”

One candle on the Township Menorah will be lit each night of Hanukah until all eight candles (including the shamash or “helper” candle in the middle) are illuminated. “Chanukah is a joyous holiday that recalls bravery and encourages personal renewal,” said Mayor Pelzman.