The “Hillel” Jewish Student Cultural Center, together with its partners, gathered the Jewish community to celebrate Chanukah together – the holiday of light, faith, and hope. On this evening, the fifth candle of the chanukiah was lit – a symbol that even a small flame can dispel darkness when it is kindled together with others.
“Chanukah is a story about a miracle made possible by people who were not afraid of the darkness and chose the light. This idea was vividly embodied in the Chanukah play prepared by the activists of the ‘Hillel’ JSC center. It was not just a theatrical performance but a living, emotional story that touched everyone present. Through symbols, texts, movement, and imagery, the audience once again experienced the deep meanings of Chanukah – about choice, responsibility, and the light that must not be hidden but brought out: to windows, to the city, to people.
The atmosphere of the evening was genuinely warm and sincere from the very first moments. Smiles, hugs, familiar faces, and a sense of togetherness created a space where everyone could feel part of a large Jewish family. We saw once again how the light of Chanukah comes alive when people gather together, openly share emotions, and support one another,” noted the director of the “Hillel” JSC center, Alyona Kolpina.
The festive program was complemented by interactive activities, shared dancing, laughter, and lively conversation. The aroma of Chanukah donuts, the jingle of Chanukah gelt, and the joy of being among like-minded people filled the evening with a special energy – the kind you want to share.
This gathering served as a reminder that Chanukah is not just a tradition, but first and foremost a community, support, and being there for one another. Light is born where there are people willing to be together and carry it forward.
Special thanks to all the partners who made this evening possible: the “Hillel” Jewish Student Cultural Center; the “Nativ” Israeli Cultural Center in Dnipro; the branch of the “Jewish Agency for Israel – Ukraine”; the Moishe House Dnipro Jewish community.
And sincere gratitude to the united and close-knit Dnipro Jewish Community and its Chief Rabbi, Shmuel Kaminezki – for their support, inspiration, and the opportunity to create events together where the light of Chanukah truly shines outward and stays with us.
