By Grace Allen

Gilly’s House in Wrentham is holding a public menorah lighting to mark the Jewish festival of Hanukkah. The event will take place on Saturday, December 28 at 6:30 p.m. The outdoor lighting ceremony will include traditional music, dancing, donuts, chocolate gelt and more.

The menorah lighting, to be held on the third night of Hanukkah, is free of charge and open to everyone of all ages and all religious faiths.

Hanukkah is the Jewish eight-day “festival of lights” celebrating the victory of a small group of freedom fighters over powerful Syrian Greeks intent on forcing their culture and religious beliefs on the people of Israel. The holiday also commemorates the rededication of the temple in Jerusalem after victory was secured, during which a single day’s supply of oil miraculously kept the menorah (candelabrum) in the temple lit for eight days, until fresh supplies could be brought in.

The religious holiday emphasizes light will overcome darkness, and freedom will overcome oppression. Publicizing the miracle of Hanukkah is part of the laws of Judaism, hence the lighting of the menorah in a place that’s visible to others.

Gilly’s House, a residential program for young men who have struggled with addiction, was founded by Wrentham resident Barbara Gillmeister and her husband in memory of their son Steven.

Gillmeister says it’s especially important to spread the message of Hanukkah in today’s world, with the increase in antisemitic incidents in the U.S. and around the globe.

“The menorah lighting is all about Jewish unity,” she said, noting the story of Hanukkah stands for religious freedom, applicable to all faiths.

Organizers say the event has grown larger each year, and community support is appreciated more than ever.

For more information or questions about the menorah lighting, email Barbara Gillmeister at [email protected]. 

Guests attending the event are asked to park at the Little Red School House parking lot, located at 944 West Street, since parking is limited at Gilly’s House. Parking is also available on Hancock Street, near the post office and Sheldonville Country Store.