Pillars of light amid darkness
Premier Allan: "We affirm that Jewish life will be protected and Jewish people will never stand alone.”
In the aftermath of the Bondi Beach massacre many Chanukah celebrations were cancelled, however, Pillars of Light, presented by the Ark Centre, stood adamant that it would continue to present a Chanukah celebration in Federation Square open to people of all faiths. Pillars of Light will run until December 21, with each night featuring prominent guests, doughnuts and music performances before the lighting of the menorah.
Ark Centre Rabbi Gabi Kaltmann told The AJN, “After the horrific terror attack in Bondi, Pillars of Light is more important than ever. It is about standing visibly and unapologetically against antisemitism on Chanukah, honouring those affected, and reminding Australia that hate will not silence us. Light is our response to darkness — unity, dignity, and strength that is the message of the Chanukah candles.”
On the third night of Chanukah at Pillars of Light Rabbi Kaltmann spoke of the bravery Reuven Morrison as “a modern day Judah Macabee”.
“While there were so many heroes that sprung up during the attack, Reuven ran towards the attacker… Reuven gave people the opportunity to run and hide… that’s who he was.” A minute of silence was held to honour the memory of the victims of the Bondi massacre,” Rabbi Kaltmann said.
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