It was standing room only at the Hanukkah Candlelighting on the Square celebration presented by Temple Shalom Sunday afternoon at Spanish Springs Town Square.
In a program hosted by Temple Rabbi Mel Glazer the crowd joined in singing familiar songs and dancing.
Sherry Elias, Ritual Chairperson at the Temple, lit the candles.
“We are so excited,” said Elias. “This year is the first time we have had Menorah candles in all three squares.”
There has been a Menorah candle and a lighting celebration for many years at Spanish Springs; the new additions have been at Lake Sumter Landing and Brownwood.
Sunday was the sixth day of Hanukkah, an eight-day celebration.
“We like to have it on Sunday so more people can come,” said Elias. “Many of my friends and neighbors are here today. That is what I love about this community this afternoon my neighbors are here for the lighting of the Menorah and tonight my husband Paul and I will be with them for Cookies and Carols singing Christmas songs.”
“It really is a holiday for everyone,” said Elias. “In addition to celebrating the miracle of the oil lamp, with enough oil for one day lasting for eight, it is the celebration of the significance of freedom and justice for all mankind. It celebrates the fact that when the weak meets the mighty, with God’s help, the weak can survive.”
Adding to the festive atmosphere, many in the audience were in holiday dress. Wearing his Menorah hat that lights up Larry Eidelberg said that it is a tradition.
“I have worn this hat to every Hanukkah candle lighting at Spanish Springs for the last ten years,” said Eidelberg. Helaina Seslowsky’s daughter sends her a shirt every year. This year’s shirt read “Deck the Halls with Matzo Balls.”
Among the many non-Jewish attendees was Lady Lake Commissioner Ruth Kussard.
“It is an honor to be invited to see the lighting of the Menorah,” said Kussard. “We come every year.”
Before the program ended with an Israeli dancing demonstration by the Villages International Dance group, Elias and Rabbi Glazer invited all in the crowd to come to a service at the Temple.
“Please join us for a Shabbat Service. They are every Friday evening at 7 p.m. We would love to share Shabbat with you” said Elias.
“I echo what Sherry said and promise the Rabbi’s message is brilliant and brief,” joked Rabbi Glazer.
Temple Shalom of Central Florida is located at 13563 County Road 101, in Oxford. For more information go to www.templeshalomcentralfl.org or call 352-748-1800.
