Luxembourg's Jewish Community Lights 1st Candle as Sombre Hanukkah Celebrations Begin

On the evening of Thursday 7 December 2023, the Consistoire Israélite de Luxembourg, the official entity representing the Jewish community of Luxembourg, held a special service at the synagogue in Luxembourg-Ville to mark the first day of Hanukkah.

The Consistoire reported that more than 50 people attended this service, during which the first candle was lit. The service was dedicated to the hostages still held by Hamas in Gaza, following the terrorist attack of 7 October 2023 on Israel.

Hanukkah is a Jewish festival celebrated over eight days and nights. Traditionally a joyful occasion - Hanukkah is also known as the Festival of Lights - this year's celebrations have taken on a more sombre tone for many members of the Jewish community around the world, following the Hamas attack and amid ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

(Photo credit: Consistoire Israélite de Luxembourg)