Chanukah Menorah lighting celebration at the Utah State Capitol honors victims of Bondi Beach shooting

On Sunday evening, the Utah State Capitol played host to a poignant Chanukah celebration organized by Chabad Lubavitch of Utah, a vital organization serving the local Jewish community. The event marked the first night of Chanukah with the ceremonial lighting of the Grand Menorah, a symbol of hope, resilience, and faith designed to illuminate the darkest days. This year’s festivities were imbued with deeper significance as attendees took time to honor the victims of a tragic mass shooting that occurred earlier that day at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia. The horrific incident, in which several lives were lost, sent shockwaves across communities worldwide, and the Utah Jewish community felt a profound sense of grief and solidarity during this festive occasion. Chabad Lubavitch of Utah’s Rabbi Benny Zippel led the gathering, emphasizing the importance of unity and remembrance in the face of violence and tragedy. "While we celebrate the miracle of Chanukah, we also reflect on the unspeakable pain that others are experiencing. It is our duty to stand together during these trying times and to light up the darkness with love and compassion,” Rabbi Zippel stated. The lighting of the Menorah, which symbolizes the miracle of the oil that lasted eight days in the ancient temple, was accompanied by prayers, songs, and a call for peace. Community members expressed their sentiments of support and remembrance through shared tears and words of encouragement. Many attendees lit personal candles in honor of the victims, emphasizing a collective desire to foster healing and understanding. This event served not only as a celebration of the Chanukah holiday but also as a heartfelt reminder of the interconnectedness of communities around the world. The solidarity demonstrated by the participants underscored a powerful message: that amid sorrow and loss, communities can come together to provide support and hope to one another. As the Grand Menorah glowed brightly against the evening sky, it served as both a beacon of light for those affected by the Bondi Beach tragedy and a symbol of enduring faith during a time of celebration and remembrance. In a season often marked by joy, the Utah Jewish community showcased its profound capacity for empathy and resilience, standing in unity as it pays homage to lives lost and seeks a path toward healing.