Chanukah at the Union

On Wednesday, Dec. 5, the fourth night of Chanukah, Chabad organized a grand Menorah lighting on the Patio Stage outside the Student Union at the University of Central Florida. We had the great honor to have President Whittaker, and UCF Police Department Chief of Police Carl Metzger.

"Chanukah is a festival of light, in this case light represents wisdom, understanding," President Whittaker shared. "It represent seeing ways that each of us can make the world a little bit better by adding light... Chanukah is time of hope, and remembering important values of perseverance, truthfulness and love and these are the values that live at UCF year round."

The president was introduced by Dr. Terri Susan Fine Stenzler, political science professor and adviser for Chabad, who shared a few words with the students.

"The lesson of Chanukah is that it is never too late to do a good deed. That when doing good deeds is when miracles do happen," said Dr. Fine. Student Body president and Chabad member, Joshua Bolona, spoke as well. Thanking the Jewish community for making sure all Jewish students have everything they need to keep everyone close to their Jewish roots.

Metzger lit the tiki torch which was passed to Whittaker to light the shamash (the center flame of the Menorah), followed by Rabbi Chaim Lipskier who lit the rest of the candles.

"Chanukah is a holiday of light, of unity, and of good triumphing over evil," said by Rabbi Lipskier. "It was an honor to participate in an event that brought all types of people together who were connected by a shared goal of ensuring that light outshines darkness."  

In addition to the lighting, those in attendance took a moment to mourn the passing of President George H. W. Bush. There was also a toy drive held over the holiday for sick children in Arnold Palmer Hospital.

Rabbi Lipskier thanked AEPi, AEPhi, and ZBT for co-sponsoring the remarkable event, and the Student Union for graciously providing a space for the Menorah all Chanukah long.  

The program concluded with traditional Chanukah songs.  

For more info about Chabad at UCF visit http://www.jewishucf.com.