Gov. Of Illinois Celebrates Chanukah With Chabad

CHICAGO – Governor Rod R. Blagojevich joined Rabbi Daniel Moscowitz of the Lubavitch Chabad of Illinois and other members of Chicago’s Jewish community tonight in a celebration of the third night of Chanukah at the Bernard Horwich Jewish Community Center in Chicago. Governor Blagojevich lit the menorah to mark the third night of the Jewish Festival of Lights, which continues through January 1st. The program also included performances by musician Ruby Harris and the Cheder Lubavitch Boys Choir.

“Chanukah is a celebration of light, optimism, and hope,” the Governor said. “In the victory of the Jewish people, the rededicating of the Temple and the burning of the oil, Chanukah represents victory against great odds. During this holiday season, we can take the themes and lessons of Chanukah to add hope to our lives.”

“Chanukah teaches us that no matter how insurmountable the odds may seem, miracles can come to those full of faith and courage. We wish Governor Blagojevich and all the wonderful citizens of our State much success and the ultimate blessings of peace and prosperity,” said Rabbi Moscowitz, Regional Director of the Lubavitch Chabad of Illinois.

Lubavitch Chabad of Illinois has twenty-five centers throughout the State of Illinois, from the Quad Cities to Champaign. The centers provide social, educational, and religious services to all.

Chanukah marks the victory of Jews over an oppressive Syrian-Greek regime over 2100 years ago, and celebrates a single vial of oil, which burned for eight days to rededicate the Temple in Jerusalem. In commemoration, Jews around the world light candles of the nine-branched menorah (candelabrum) every night during the holiday.