For the seventh time, Kyiv hosted the traditional cross-denominational Hanukkah lighting ceremony, organized with the initiative and support of the All-Ukrainian Charitable Foundation “For Your Sake”, the Museum of Kyiv History, the Babyn Yar National Historical and Memorial Center, and the Jewish Community of Kyiv.
This special tradition was honored by the presence of distinguished guests, including renowned composer and Hero of Ukraine Oleksandr Zlotnyk, Chief Rabbi of Ukraine Moshe Asman, the Ambassadors Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Austria and Israel to Ukraine, and Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko.
SCRIPT:
the traditional interdenominational Hanukkah candle lighting ceremony was held for the seventh time the atmosphere here is truly wonderful ecumenical even symbolic as this year both lighting of the Hanukkah manur and Christmas fall on the same day an example of the heroism that preceded the emergence of this holiday is crucial for Ukraine today it represents self-sacrifice the sacrifice of one’s family and the sacrifice of so much for the sake of one’s
Homeland during this holiday we should understand that each of us has a certain spark that always
prevails Jews have always been part of the urban community today is the day when we all as you can see both rabbis and Priests have raised our prayers to the
Lord today even as we continue to live here and create something in our beloved City ke amidst missile strikes during this very harsh and unpleasant War we still sing in Ukrainian Yiddish and English of course at the very beginning of the ceremony words of gratitude were expressed to those who made its realization possible the Ukrainian Defenders we’re surrounded by people who are doing everything to bring peace back to our land hanuka is a holiday that many people also from outside can relate a lot because it’s about the battle between good and bad Hanukkah is exactly what we need today both in Ukraine and in Israel it’s the hope for light for peace for the miracle that we’re all waiting for this ceremony is a living picture of our Ukraine it is multinational Multicultural and multiethnic and we all respect each other we celebrate different holidays together and this is very important the Ukrainian and Jewish peoples will walk together Jewish Heritage is a part of Ukrainian Heritage as we always say I follow the Christian tradition more but I’m very pleased that we have the opportunity for two communities the Ukrainian and Jewish to celebrate this day together Ukraine today is on the side of light and will win if it follows God if it is confident in Victory if it is United together at the end of the celebration honorary gifts from the Embassy of Israel in Ukraine were presented to the righteous among the Nations and their families
Story Provided By:
Kyiv Jewish Messianic Congregation
Producing Organization
Kyiv Jewish Messianic Congregation https://www.kemokiev.org/en
Recording Location
Kyiv
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