Temple Beth Israel celebrates Hanukkah with dinner party

Temple Beth Israel celebrated Hanukkah with a dinner party after services on Dec. 8.

About 140 people attended this party. Co-president of Temple Beth Israel Marion Levine said it was one of their best gatherings this year.

After the service was over, Rabbi Stephen Sniderman led everyone through a menorah lighting ceremony and blessing. After everyone sat at their tables, the guests enjoyed the dinner of either chicken or brisket. 

The Beth Israel Women, the sisterhood of the temple, organized this event. They teamed up to bake two full tables of different Jewish pastries to celebrate the holiday. The women also decorated and provided entertainment as well. 

Tena Tessler read a poem titled “The Night Before Hanukkah." Some of the women also sang some traditional Hanukkah songs accompanied by Rabbi Sniderman. 

“During this time of hardship for us, it is nice to gather together with everyone and have a good time,” said Isaac Azerad, executive director of the Temple. “This is all about supporting each other. We are very much a tribe-like community.”