Chanukah commemorates the reconsecration of the ancient Temple in Jerusalem by the Maccabees and their followers, after it had been desecrated. Chanukah celebrates the liberation of the ancient kingdom of Israel from foreign occupation. It teaches us that freedom must sometimes be fought for — a message that continues to resonate today.
We join all people of Jewish faith in thanking God who has “sustained us and enabled us to reach this season.” May the candles of Chanukah light our memories of those lost on Sept. 11. And may this be a season of joy for us all.