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Ottawa University President Addresses Jewish Students at Chabad and Aepi’s Chanukah Celebration

OTTAWA, Canada [CHI] — Ottawa’s Jewish university students flocked to Ottawa University’s prestigious Tabaret Hall on Sunday December 13 to celebrate Chanukah with a Menorah lighting ceremony and a special address from Ottawa University president, Allan Rock.

Though it was at the height of final exams, an astounding 120 students came to partake in the joy of the holiday. Undergraduates, graduate students and alumni packed into the hall to hear words of inspiration from the university president, as well as from student leaders and students representing affiliate organizations.

President Rock began by expressing his admiration for the work of Chabad on campus. “Let me say how much I admire the work of Chabad on campus,” remarked Allan Rock. “It’s clearly the most vibrant, one of the most active student organizations. It enriches not only those members of Chabad who take part in the activities, but it enriches as well the lives of all the students on campus.” He spoke about the unique nature of light and its significance on the Festival of Lights. He went on to expound on a thought he learned from Rabbi Reuven Bulka of Ottawa about the true meaning of Shalom – peace, which on a higher level means completeness. His message to students was to strive for tolerance, understanding, and unity between people of all backgrounds.

Students who have played a major role in promoting Jewish awareness on campus were called up to light the candles on the large 12-foot Menorah and the traditional blessings and songs were recited. A dessert reception followed complete with festive Chanukah decor, latkes and jelly doughnuts, and chocolate gelt. The evening concluded with a surprise to take home: paper one-dollar and two-dollar bills, distributed to each student in observance of the tradition of giving Chanukah Gelt.

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