On Sunday night, Congregation Beth Jacob, Plymouth’s community synagogue since 1912, joined other residents of the greater Plymouth area in front of Town Hall to light the first candle of our outdoor menorah, marking the first night of Hannukah. Our menorah stands proudly next to the town’s Christmas tree, and we’re proud to be a part of the town’s annual holiday festivities.
Even the wind and snow couldn’t deter us from gathering to sing songs, pass out hot chocolate, and catch gelt (chocolate coins) thrown to the children by local Plymouth firefighters. We briefly considered canceling our nine-year tradition of publicly lighting our menorah due to the weather, but upon hearing the news of the tragic shooting at the Hannukah celebration in Australia, we felt it was more important than ever to gather in public and celebrate together.
We must not shy away from our traditions in the face of evil, and continue to respond to darkness with light, a statement Congregation Beth Jacob will continue to stand by. We will always gather in celebration and observance of our holidays, live by our values, and embrace and work toward the betterment of our local community. We also want to express how greatly we appreciate the support we have received and continue to receive from our friends and neighbors in Plymouth.
We will gather again to light the menorah on the 4th and 8th nights of Hannukah (Dec. 17 and 21) at 6:30pm at Town Hall. We invite anyone who wishes to stand with us in solidarity as we light these candles, bringing more light into our sometimes-dark world.
Wishing everyone a holiday season that is filled with joy, peace and kindness.
– Devon Fernald and Dianne Bluestein
Fernald and Bluestein are co-presidents of Congregation Beth Jacob.