Hanukkah celebration with the seniors of the Uniting Care social center

On Tuesday, December 12, the cozy office of the Foundation hosted the seniors we support to join in a celebration of Hanukkah and light the sixth Hanukkah candle.

On this heart-warming afternoon, Rabbi Israel Eisensharf told us of the celebration of Hanukkah and lit the candles of the traditional candelabra, called the hanukkiah. We treated our guests with traditional oil-fried delicacies – potato pancakes, or latkes, and doughnuts, or sufganiyot. 

Photos: Nikolajs Krasnopevcevs

Hanukkah is also called the Festival of Lights, and it commemorates the recovery of Jerusalem and the rededication of the Holy Temple in the 6th century BCE. As the temple was recovered, lights were lit inside, however, there was very little oil left, just enough for one day. A miracle occurred, and the candles continues burning for eight days instead. Since then, for eight days each year, oil is never spared – both in lamps and candles and in the preparation of delicious foods. As we continue to develop our own festive traditions, this year we also explored the world of aroma oils.

Rehabilitologist Miriam Kelim offered wisdom on the sights, sounds and sensations of the wonders all around us if we only apply the right senses. With the help of all senses (sight, hearing, taste, smell, and touch), we immersed into the world of beautiful music, aroma oils, and various flavors, while enjoying professional massages. We also challenged our sense of touch as we had to guess objects blind-folded, using only our hands to discern form, structure, material, and meaning.

The Uniting Care team, social workers and caregivers, also participated in the event, and we wish to thank them once again from the bottom of our hearts for their work which has served to improve the life quality of our seniors all year.

The festivities of Hannukah teach us that light is multiplied as it is shared. This was the purpose of our event – to come together, feel warmth, share smiles and positive emotions. At the end of the event, each attendee received a special gift to take home.

Special thanks to:

Diana Reznikova for the delicious treats.

Rabbi Israel Eisensharf for his time.

Miriam Kelim for new insights and senses.

Nikolajs Krasnopevcevs for photos.

As well as all who joined us and our team who take care of a festive atmosphere.

We wish you all light-filled celebrations!