Chanukah Joy at Jerusalem Station

Photos: Ezra Benjamin & Devorah Rose

A grand menorah lighting ceremony took place every night of Chanukah at the Tachana Rishona (First Station) complex in Jerusalem, thanks to Chabad of Baka, which is directed by Rabbi Avraham and Nechama Dina Hendel.

“There was a spiritual glow at Tachana Rishona, caused by the daily menorah lightings, which included lively music, dancing, and the distribution of hundreds of doughnuts,” Rabbi Hendel stated. “Jews of all religious affiliations and backgrounds were invited from the crowd to light the huge menorah and recite the brachot.”

Mayanot yeshiva students assisted with the festivities, which included numerous menorah lightings in the restaurants at First Station.

“Ein K’mo Chabad- there is nothing like Chabad,” many excited passersby exclaimed, while others rushed to take selfies in front of the huge menorah.

The 4th night was especially moving, as the menorah lighting honored the volunteers and children in the Friendship Circle of South Jerusalem, a branch of Chabad of Baka. A lively entertainer mesmerized the crowd with his stunts and fire show, and City Council member Fleur Nahoum inspired the crowd with her words of Torah.

The evening was in memory of Rabbi Hendel’s brother Levi, OBM, who passed away on the 4th night of Chanukah, while en route to mivtzaim at an army base in Eilat.

The Beit Levi-Chabad of Baka community was founded in Levi’s memory, and strives to emulate his selflessness and love for fellow Jews.

BH Chabad of Baka, Jerusalem, is now a thriving community and eagerly awaits the building of a center to service its growing needs.