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ST. GEORGE — As a fog of darkness and worry seemingly clouds parts of the world during a time of conflict and mounting tensions, the days are coming when that darkness may be dispelled by the candlelight.
Such is the message of Rabbis Mendy Cohen and Helene Ainbinder this Hanukkah season as they spoke with St. George News about the importance of the holiday for southern Utah's Jewish community during a time of war between Israeli forces and Hamas militants half a world away.
Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, starts this Thursday, Dec. 7, and runs for eight days. It commemorates the victory of the ancient Hebrews over those who sought to crush their faith and spiritual identity. The victory is symbolized by the miracle of light connected to the lighting of the menorah.
As in recent years, the Chabad Jewish Community Center of Southern Utah has hosted menorah lightings in St. George – and more recently in Cedar City – to highlight the holiday and bring people together. It is that coming together as a supportive community that holds special significance this year, Cohan said.
