On the eve of Chanukah Shabbat, our message is profound
On the eve of Chanukah Shabbat, our message is profound:
Nothing will extinguish the light of Israel.
Nothing will stop us from resisting the tyranny of hate, lies, or selfish indifference.
Nothing will prevent us from making sure our truth is told, protected, and carried forward to the future with dignity and pride.
As we reflect on the joy rooted in our history and ask ourselves: How will we shine our light outward to create a greater impact?
Together, we can illuminate the darkness with knowledge, connection, and action.
THIS IS A MUST-LISTEN-TO INTERVIEW
Our leader, resident expert and visionary Dr. Elana Heideman is interviewed by Paul Calvert to explore the deep significance of Hanukkah in today’s context. Together, they discuss the miracles of the past and how they resonate in the present, particularly amidst Israel’s ongoing challenges. Elana shares heartfelt stories of resilience—from acts of solidarity for soldiers and displaced families to personal anecdotes about lighting the Hanukkah candles in historically meaningful locations across Israel.
This episode also highlights the enduring power of Jewish survival, the call for unity, and the ways we can create light in times of darkness. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that weaves together tradition, history, and hope as we prepare for a Hanukkah unlike any other.
HOST A CONVERSATION WITH DR. HEIDEMAN FOR YOUR GROUP
YOU CAN DO MORE WITH YOUR LIGHT
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DONATE TO MAKE IT ALL POSSIBLE.
ADD THIS SPECIAL PRAYER FOR THE RETURN OF THE HOSTAGES
Recite at the time of your candlelighting:
Our Father in Heaven. Amidst the light of the Hanukkah candles that will illuminate Jewish homes and reveal the miracle of your presence in our world and recall the strength and heroic spirit of the Maccabees, and the salvation of the victory of those days.
We come and plead before you that you will similarly bring light to all those who remain trapped in darkness: To all the captives imprisoned in tunnels of darkness and are desperately seeking salvation and return to their homes. To all their families and those who wish for their safety and welfare, while dark shadows continue to fill their worlds.
To all those who have been forced out of their homes, while their hearts and homes remain dark. To all the bereaved families whose lives have been permanently darkened. And all those who have been injured in body and spirit. Hashem, please fill your world with light! And fulfill for us that which is written: ‘A new light will shine upon Zion, and we will all quickly merit its light.’
Amen.
Engage your families, friends, and community to encourage creative discussion and connection. Host a Night in Blue and White to celebrate our thriving spirit as we rededicate ourselves to the meaning of Chanukah and our identity as the nation of Israel. Recipes, games, coloring books, blessing blankets and more - Israel Forever is your home for your peoplehood engagement.
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