The city of Wasilla, Alaska is shining bright with a 20-foot menorah on the second night of Hanukkah. The giant menorah, built by local artist Patrick Garley, was lit Thursday evening at Wasilla Lake.
Rabbi Mendy Greenberg of Mat-Su Jewish Center said the menorah was made in memory of former Mayor of Wasilla Bert Cottle. “There’s a general universal message of Hanukkah to every single person”, Greenberg said. “the idea of fighting the darkness with a candle of peace.”
This year’s Hanukkah celebration is the tenth year Wasilla Lake has hosted the public menorah lighting. The lighting ceremony began near sundown, with guests sharing latke and other food. They did this before hearing remarks from Rabbi Greenberg and former Wasilla Mayor Glenda Ledford.
In Jewish tradition, they lit the menorah every night until January 2. Rabbi Greenberg said the Jewish center has candles and menorahs available for those who do not have access to their own.
The city-wide celebration of Hanukkah will continue with Cirque Du Hanukkah at the Glenn Massay Theatre on Monday. Wasilla’s Hanukkah celebration is a wonderful example of the city’s commitment to faith and community.
As the city shines bright with its giant menorah, it reminds us of the true spirit of Hanukkah. The festival of lights is a time for people to come together and celebrate the miracle of the oil that burned for eight days in the rededicated Temple in Jerusalem.
In the spirit of Hanukkah, Rabbi Greenberg emphasized the importance of kindness, generosity, and community. “We want to spread the light and the joy of Hanukkah to everyone”, he said.
This news story was originally published by Alaska’s News Source.
