For a record 35th year in a row, the Rabbinical College of America and it’s 53 Chabad House affiliates in NJ, under the direction of Head Shliach Rabbi Moshe Herson, coordinated the annual Menorah Lighting at the NJ State House.
Participating in the lighting was Senate President Steven Sweeney, Lt. Governor Kim Gaudango, as well as Attorney General John Hoffmann.
The event began in the Senate Chambers where the over 100 guests and dignitaries, as well as the over 50 Shluchim were treated to a performance by the Abrams academy and were subsequently addressed by the Senate President, the Lt. Governor and the Attorney General.
The Senate President, who is known for his close friendship to Chabad in New Jersey, urged the Jewish community to continue to bring the light of the Menroah to all parts of the State “This is such a powerful message to not only the Jewish community, but to the wider community as well” he said.
Attorney General Hoffmann, who recently visited the Rabbinical College of America, remarked that while “I am only genetically 1/64th Jewish, today I am a 100% Chanukah celebrator.”
Rabbi Mendy Herson, Executive Director of Chabad of Basking Ridge, spoke on behalf of the Shluchim.
“As one who grew up his entire life in NJ, I have witnessed the continuous support and friendship of the NJ leadership,” he said.
“This is so important especially when you take into consideration the events going on around the world and the message we need to convey, it is crucial that we work together,” he added.
The event was coordinated and emceed by Rabbi Avi Richler, Executive Director of Chabad of Gloucester County and a friend of Sen. Sweeney.
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