Long
ago, in the land of Israel, a brave group of heroes battled
a mighty oppressor. Antiochus Epiphanes, king of the Syrians
and Greeks, a powerful and cruel conqueror, attacked Jerusalem.
He desecrated the sacred Temple and ordered Jews to observe
Greek rituals and abandon Torah. Many Jews suffered and
were put to death at the hands of this vicious ruler.
A
hero, Mattityahu, his five sons and their followers (the
Macabees) led the rebellion and won. This courageous group
of men and women would not abandon their beliefs and against
all odds they were victorious.
This
Hanukkah while safe in your home with your family and
friends; while shopping for gifts for loved ones; while
your children and grandchildren are laughing, playing,
spinning a dreidle; when you sit down together to enjoy
a bountiful table, eating latkes and sufganiot, exchanging
Hanukkah geld; and each night while you are lighting your
Hanukkiah; remember the bravery of the Maccabees. They
stood together, "One Jew responsible for another," and
won.
While
you're contemplating your blessings consider members of
our Jewish family here in our own community and the world
over who are not so fortunate. What a better time than
Hanukkah when we are looking into the eyes of those we
love and thanking G-d, to perpetuate a Jewish tradition
of helping those in need.
Foundation
donors make possible a brighter Hanukkah for members of
our Jewish family. Create an Endowment or Donor Advised
Fund or leave a bequest in your will to benefit our synagogues,
Jewish agencies or any Jewish cause today. For additional
information or a confidential consultation please call
Paulette
Keifer, Executive Director, 904-394-0720.
Consult your advisor before making any financial decisions.
Together
we can ensure justice for all against all odds. Give Jewishly…
it does a world of good.