Hanukkah Solidarity Vigil in Osnabrück
Get ready for a heartfelt display of compassion during this year's Hanukkah celebration. A private initiative spearheaded by Reinhart Richter of Osnabrück has sparked a solidarity vigil in front of the city's synagogue. This courageous act is a response to the recurring issue of anti-Semitism, as Richter, a 84-year-old cultural consultant, puts it: "For Jewish people to endure such unimaginable hardships, the return of anti-Semitism, is just heartbreaking."
From December 7th until the end of Hanukkah, at least two volunteers will be stationed outside the synagogue daily. This will continue from 7:00 am through 7:00 pm, with relief coming every 2 hours. The security personnel will be provided by the Diocese of Osnabrück, the Society for Christian-Jewish Cooperation, the local theater, and the VfL Osnabrück sports club, among others. The Lord Mayor, Katharina Pötter (CDU), will join the solidarity vigil on its first day.
Reinhart's initiative has gathered an overwhelming wave of support from the community. Many volunteers have expressed their desire to participate, ensuring that the daily vigil will persist until the end of the Hanukkah festival.
Hanukkah, the Jewish Festival of Lights, is a commemoration of the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem over two thousand years ago. This eight-day festival emphasizes a tradition of miraculous light, marked by the daily lighting of a candlestick.
Osnabrück, and other parts of Lower Saxony, are planning events for Hanukkah this year. In Hanover, Eliah Sakakushev-von Bismarck, the director of Villa Seligmann, will discuss the rich history, symbolism, and customs related to the festival. The Yiddish singer and cantor, Sveta Kundish, is scheduled to perform at Villa Seligmann this Thursday.
The solidarity vigil in Osnabrück is an eloquent reflection of religious tolerance and understanding. Amidst the ongoing struggles faced by the Jewish community, events such as these serve as powerful reminders of the importance of religious freedom and unity. They provide a sense of comfort and solidarity in the face of intolerance and hatred.
Enrichment Insights:
Interfaith gatherings and community service projects are common during Hanukkah. Organizations like the Diocese of Osnabrück and VfL Osnabrück sports club often support such events, aiming to foster tolerance and understanding within the local community. These initiatives highlight the shared values of peace, unity, and compassion that are central to Hanukkah.
