The Chabad House of Melbourne’s Central Business District directed by Rabbi Chaim Herzog held its annual Menorah Lighting and Cocktail Party at the Victorian State Parliament House on the second night of Chanukah. Victoria’s Premier John Brumby and the Opposition Leader Ted Baillieu were in attendance as well as many other politicians, community leaders and members of the community.
The master of ceremonies Rabbi Meir Shlomo Kluwgant opened the evening with inspiring words on how the fact that we are able to light the Chanukah Menorah in Parliament proves how the Government supports and helps Jews to keep their traditions and celebrate their religion. Rabbi Herzog then addressed the audience on the importance of lighting up the darkness – even after the tragedy of Mumbai – we must now continue to light up the world even more so – that not one place in this world shall remain dark with hate and intolerance.
Premier Brumby spoke on the State of Victoria’s tolerance and welcoming of all peoples in the spirit of multiculturalism. Premier Brumby expressed his happiness at joining in the Chanukah celebrations as a demonstration of how Australia, and Victoria in particular, value their Jewish citizens and their Jewish culture and their right to freedom.
Opposition Leader Ted Baillieu spoke about the importance of the festival of Chanukah – how it has been celebrated for almost 2,000 years – and how the Victorian Parliament respects and celebrates all cultures and their ancient traditions.
Rabbi Chaim Tzvi Groner of the Yeshivah Centre then spoke about how Chanukah celebrates Unity – he addressed the Premier and State Opposition Leader who are unified in their support of Victorian Jewry. Rabbi Groner also explained the Seven Noachide Laws at length to the participants.
The Menorah was then lit by Rabbi Herzog and Chazzan Yechezkel Braun sang Haneros Halalu and Maoz Tzur. Many Jews from Melbourne’s city-centre and many professionals and businesspeople participated in this annual event which was followed by a Cocktail party.
