Chanukah Celebrated in Essex Like Never Before

A crowd of some 250 people gathered at the Gants Hill roundabout in Northeast London, where a Menorah lighting took place for the 27th year in a row.

It is one of ten public menorahs that were scattered around Northeast London and Essex, inspired by head Shliach to the area Rabbi Aryeh Sufrin, with the assistance of fellow Shluchim Rabbi Moshe Muller and Rabbi Odom Brandman.

Rabbi Sufrin was joined by Member of Parliament Lee Scott, Deputy Mayor Councillor Tanya Solomons, Leader of Redbridge Council Keith Prince and City Counselors Alan Weinberg and Ashley Kissin.

They each addressed the crowd, expressing their joy at participating in this event, and how Rabbi Aryeh and Mrs. Devorah Sufrin are known for their exceptional work within both the Jewish and non-Jewish communities of Essex.

The Brochos were sung by Shliach Rabbi Moshe Muller, and entertainment provided by his son Yitzi Muller.

A lively Chanukah party with music and dancing lasted until late into the night at Chabad’s temporary accommodation, while their new building is being built across the road.

Five bochurim from the Yeshiva in Brunoy, France assisted with the many activities and Mivtzoim around the area: Mendy Cunin, Shmuli Sputz, Avrom Yaakov Shagalow, Shneur Karp and Mendy Greisman.

Rabbi Sufrin commented:”It’s inspiring to see year in and year out the crowds coming together to identify with Chanukah and Chabad’s contribution to the wider community. As we build new Menorahs each year, now numbering ten, the exposure of Chabad to the wider community reaches thousands – it’s breathtaking.”