The Rochester area marks the first night of Hanukkah with ceremonial lightings of community Menorahs on Sunday.
The City of Rochester welcomes the Festival of Lights with a Menorah at City Hall, 30 Church Street in Rochester. The 5 pm lighting ceremony is sponsored by Chabad-Lubavitch of Rochester.
For her last time as Monroe County Executive, Maggie Brooks will host a Hanukkah celebration, and light the Menorah at the County Office Building, 39 W. Main Street, at 5:45 pm.
The Menorah at the University of Rochester is at Wilson Commons on Wilson Boulevard. The public lighting is set for 6 pm.
The lighting of the public Menorah in Pittsford is planned for Monday night at 6.
Temple Beth El will celebrate the eight days of Hanukkah with a public Menorah lighting each evening at 139 Winton Rd. South. It plans a community Hanukkah party Wednesday evening.
Sunday is also the Jewish Federation of Rochester's "Super Sunday" phone-a-thon. This year's theme is "Light a candle for the Jewish world." Volunteers help raise funds to support the Jewish community here, in Israel and around the world. Margo Cohen of the Federation tells WXXI the campaign raises about $4.5 million every year.
Governor Andrew Cuomo offered a statement saying, in part, “Hanukkah honors the enduring spirit and dedication of the Jewish people in the face of persecution and hardship-no matter how great the odds. As New Yorkers, we have been confronted time and time again with adversity and challenges, but the message of Hanukah teaches us that when we stand together united, we can overcome any obstacle.
“Our state has always been a beacon of hope for the nation-a light when everything looked darkest. As New Yorkers light the menorah tonight, and celebrate the miracle of this joyous holiday, we are reminded not only of our strength, but our collective resolve.
“May the Festival of Lights bring warmth and comfort to all the people of this State, and inspire us to come together in these difficult times to create a safer and more resilient New York. On behalf of all New Yorkers, best wishes and happy Hanukkah. Chag Urim Sameach.”
