Jewish community Chabad Lubavitch Moldova
Chanukah in Kishinev – The First Candle

The renovations of the Chabad Lubavitch synagogue are in full swing. Prayers are held daily in the prayer room. Members of our community are eagerly awaiting the completion of the synagogue renovations, which will be completed closer to the spring. 

But the renovations are no reason to cancel celebrations! The Chanukah holiday and the lighting of the first Chanukah candle took place in the banquet hall of the guest house at the Telecentre, and the Kishinev Jews gathered there on the 24th of Kislev (November 28th, 2021). In a very festive and light atmosphere, Rav Mendel Gozel wished everyone a wonderful Chanukah and told them about the origins of the holiday. The first candle of the Chanukiah was lit, and afterwards, there was a gourmet kosher dinner and live music – professional musicians played and sang throughout the evening. It is not surprising that some of the guests could not sit still and started dancing, once again demonstrating the camaraderie and spirit of the Jewish people!

According to tradition, a festive raffle took place. The first winner was Shaya Barenboim! His prize was tzitzit – a very meaningful prize since wearing tzitzit everyday is one of the most important mitzvahs for Jewish males!

Gifts were also raffled among the women and children. The prizes included a set of women’s cosmetics and a 500 Lei certificate for a toy store. The winners were Nelly Reigin and Tatiana Aronova! All the gifts for the Chanukah raffle were purchased by the Chabad Lubavitch Synagogue. 

A fun Paper Party was organized for the younger guests. It was a ton of fun and joy for all! The children danced and jumped in paper “foam”, laughing in such simple and pure things such as friendship and a sense of community. 

When a Jewish child is able to experience the joys of Chanukah from an early age, they will always have a place in their heart for the miracle of Chanukah and an appreciation for observing Jewish traditions. They will remember that every year, Jews around the world are united by the lighting of the Chanukah candles and the joy and warmth of the holiday. 


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