A Historical Menorah to Remember in Brazil

That is exactly what Curitibanos (Curitiba, Brazil) were doing days before Chanukah, trying to remember and put together historical dates to be included in a 120 white stone Menorah, with a year in golden letters attached to every stone.

A larger than usual crowd filled the “Praça 29 de Março”, on a beautiful summer-weather evening. As the children enjoyed exclusives toys and games from Judaica72 (Judaica72.com.br), and made their very own Dreidel clock, a military band was playing jewish songs, hot Latkes and Sufganiot were available.

The Traditional Giant Menorah was first switched on by Senator Alvaro Dias followed by the president of the federation and deputy Flavio coelho.

No doubt the highlight was the 120 white stone historical Menorah. From Jose Flaks, the first Jewish immigrant to come to Curitiba, down to the present year, representatives of the families and presidents of organizations were called upon, one by one, to place a photo or logo on the stone corresponding to the year the event took place.

Rabbi Dubrawsky, director of Beit Chabad Curitiba, emphasized the importance of this Menorah:

“The unity and togetherness that this Menorah represents will shine forever; it is with the power of unity that this Menorah came to being, and no doubt that the lights of this historical Menorah will illuminate Curitiba, for years to come”.

Rabbi Dubrawsky made the Brochot and the oldest Membor of the Community, 95 year old; Mrs. Sara Krieger עמו“ש was called upon to assist with lighting a candle, and so was a little boy; Henrique Kohane עמו”ש called to assist in lighting another candle, thereby representing the entire community.

The youth

Not to leave the youth behind, for Chanukah, the Chabad House, had a special bowling night called “Boliche e Sushi”, were tens of teens and college students, gathered to enjoy Sushi, delicious Latkes and doughnuts and to participate in the public Menorah lighting in the Bowling alley.