With so much tragedy marking the start of the new year, I felt a deep need to seek peace and unity. Like many, I was shaken by the devastating events that unfolded yesterday: a truck plowing through revelers in New Orleans, killing 15 and injuring dozens more, and a terrifying explosion in Las Vegas. As I reflected on these moments of darkness, I felt compelled to find light. Seeking the comfort of a faith community, I attended the lighting of the World’s Largest Menorah in New York City.
The final night of Hanukkah—a celebration of resilience, miracles, and hope—was the perfect opportunity to reflect and pray for world peace. Standing at the corner of 5th Avenue and 59th Street, surrounded by people from all walks of life, I found myself immersed in a shared desire for healing and unity.
This year, the first night of Hanukkah coincided with Christmas for the first time since 2005, creating a unique convergence of faiths and traditions. It also marked 50 years of Hanukkah being celebrated in the public sphere in New York City. The towering 36-foot menorah, designed by Israeli artist Yaacov Agam and inspired by Maimonides’ drawing of the original Temple menorah, stood as a luminous reminder of the resilience of the Jewish people and the power of faith to light the way through even the darkest times.
Joining Jewish leaders, city officials, and hundreds of community members, I listened as Mayor Eric Adams spoke about the importance of unity. “Whether you’re Jewish, Christian, Black, White, young, old, or from any walk of life, we have to come together,” he told me during our interview. “The menorah isn’t just a Jewish symbol—it’s a symbol for everyone, reminding us to stand against darkness and illuminate the world with love and understanding.”
At a time when antisemitism is on the rise and conflicts across the globe seem unending, the Hanukkah story offers a beacon of hope. It reminds us that even when the odds are against us, light can prevail. The final candle of the menorah, lit last night, symbolized not just the end of the holiday but a call to action for all of us to be sources of light in a troubled world.
As we enter 2025, I carry with me the inspiration from that evening. Faith communities remind us of our shared humanity, and gatherings like this show how we can come together, transcending differences, to create a brighter future.
The menorah’s glow may have faded for now, but its message endures: Together, through love, understanding, and resilience, we can overcome darkness and illuminate the path forward.
Wishing you all a year of light, peace, and unity.
— Cathleen Trigg
Founder, iWoman TV
Comments