By Bernice Fogel – Chabad of Talbiya and Friendship Circle Supporter
It is already 9 years since Rabbi Eliyahu and Chana Canterman, Shluchim to Talbieh-Mamilla and directors of FC C. Jerusalem commissioned the magnificent Chanukia that adorns the entrance to the Mamilla mall for the 8 days of Chanuka (see “What Changed the Curator’s mind” reported on COLlive for the full history).
The placement and lighting of this Chanukiah has become one of the traditions that Jerusalemites anticipate from year to year. Undaunted by the elements, be they force 8 storms or the competition of other events taking place in the city, project ‘Light Up Mamilla’ captivates the streets of Central Jerusalem.
This year was no exception. Except that it was, in terms of the exceptional depth of the program and the turnout of support.
Each and every night, the crowds gathered, swelling into the huge numbers of well over a thousand spectators eagerly awaiting not just the entertainment and sufganiot, but the candle lighting itself.
Careful thought had gone into the planning of the themes for the nights and each one had special meaning and depth. MC Yossi Frankel donated his time nightly, revving up the crowd before the lightings.
The 1st night was entitled ‘L’chvod Am Yisrael’ and was honored by the presence of Jerusalem Mayor Moshe Lion who lit the first candle. Singer Simcha Friedman drew the crowd into what was to be an air balloon of joy and dancing that continued with each night that followed.
The second night celebrated people with special needs and was hosted by the Friendship Circle. Chain supermarket owner Rami Levy – long-time supporter of F.C C. Jerusalem lit a candle together with 4 participants of F.C Jeru’ and singing star of the night- Itzik Dadiya.
The families and children who are a part of FC Jeru’ on a weekly basis were there in full force, thoroughly enjoying both the attention and the music. 8-year-old Shloimie Deutsch sang together with Itzik Dadiya who was visibly moved by the experience. Itzik flew into action, drawing a record number of over 2000 guests whose enthusiasm was fuelled by his songs filled with meaning and joy.
The Third night entitled ‘Light Prevails’, was dedicated to families who have suffered acts of terror. The families of Amiad Yisrael Ishran, Gennady Kaufman and Hallel Yaffa Ariel HY”D were present and emotions ran high as the family members lit the candles.
“Chanuka is a chag when the family comes together as one, and celebrates this holiday by lighting candles that shine out…We want to bless all of us that we should always feel part of this beautiful, wonderful family of am Israel and shine our light out always to the rest of the world,” stated Shira Ish Ran so profoundly.
The most incredible music followed by Avi Piamenta and friends who gave their soul and talent to uplift people’s spirits and the mood turned quickly from pathos to joy… for hours.
The fourth night honored Acts of Courage and one of the candle lighters was famous Marathon Mother- Beatie Deutsch who elicited a huge roar of applause from the crowd as she ascended the steps to light a candle with her family. Singer Shmuel Dahan fired up the night with his spirit and songs.
On the fifth night of Chanuka, a deluge of rain did not prevent the Menorah Lighting from taking place. Young teen singers Chaim Zippel and Noam Ben David “Gave it all they Got” and had people dancing away; albeit umbrellas in hand.
The 7th night- Motzei Shabbos drew record crowds. After the undocumented storms of the previous two days, they were ready to party. This night honored Israel’s Soldiers and the music was led by the popular Portnoy band, continuing until late when the soldiers were treated to a barbecue on a veranda in David’s Village, winter gifts and flowing bottles of beer.
International/Unity night capped the Chanuka lightings, with candle lighters from all corners of the world representing the International flavor of Jerusalem.
Mr. Kurt Rothschild, President of World Mizrachi who had just celebrated his 99th birthday was honored with reciting the brochos and lighting the first candle of the night. The lightings culminated in a spectacular performance by the Solomon Brothers- now playing at ‘Light up Mamilla’ for their 9th consecutive year. The energy and enthusiasm that emanated from the famous Avenue extended far up King David Street. Like the story of the Pied Piper, people were drawn to the beautiful sounds and light. The mitzvah and the miracle of Chanuka were clearly being shown to the world.
Long after the singing brothers had finished their repertoire, the crowd would not let them go. It was as if no one wanted these magical nights to be extinguished for another whole year. Clearly the light and energy generated by this replica of the Rebbe’s Menorah in 770, should continue shining long after in the hearts of all of Am Yisrael – Chai.
light up the night
Moshiach NOW
Miss being there so much!
What a beautiful way to spread the light
wow wow and wow what a party good job keep on dancing we want Moshiach now
This must be the biggest Kiddush Lubavitch in the holy land.
Kol hakovoid, and hatzlocho raboh.
I know of nowhere in the world where for 7 night Hannuka is celebrated by so many with so much joy as here in Mamila. Amazing achievement Rabbi and Mrs Canterman. Thank you
Wow!
Kul Hakoved to Friendship Circle / Chabad of Talbieh for lighting up and warming the hearts of yiden in Yerushalyim and all over the world!
Reb Eli and Rebitzen Chanale Canterman – you are a special couple / Amazing people – it’s truly a zechis to be so close to you both – closer then family !
CHAZAK chazak
Eli and yitty Glaser
Yerushalyim / New York