As we welcome in the new year, we look back on the heartfelt community celebrations of last month, including the Jewish community in Radlett preparing to celebrate Chanukah, also known as Hanukkah, the joyous festival of light, love and unity.
The eight-day celebration is held annually and is an important celebration for the Jewish community to commemorate the rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem during the Maccabean Revolt.
Despite there only being enough oil on the premises to last for one day, they lit the menorah, and to their amazement, the oil miraculously lasted for eight days.
Today, Jewish families light the chanukiah (a special type of menorah specifically for Chanukah), adding one light each night until eight are shining bright.
A communal lighting of the menorah was held at the Radlett centre from Sunday, December 14, to Sunday, December 21, at 5.30pm each night, with leaders of Radlett’s various Jewish communities taking centre stage.
Traditional dishes fried in oil, such as latkes (potato pancakes) and doughnuts, are eaten, while families exchange eight small gifts one night of the festival.
Speaking to RADLETTnews, Radlett United Synagogue co-chair Simon said: “The Jewish community in Radlett wishes everyone in the village a joyous and peaceful holiday season.
“As our community comes together, we hope to share the warmth and joy of Chanukah with our neighbours of all faiths and backgrounds.
“May the values of Chanukah inspire us all to spread kindness, compassion and understanding as we say goodbye to 2025 and welcome 2026. Happy Chanukah Radlett!”
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