Montreal’s Geirut Chanukah party

What a fitting way to inaugurate the new offices of the Jewish Community Council than with a Chanukah party and the lights of the menorah illuminating its new premises.

Rabbi Chriqui opened the festivities by telling those assembled that not only is Chanukah a very special time, the party was being held in a very special place, in the new premises of the MK, Beth Din, Jewish Community Council and Geirut Center.

Rabbi Saul Emanuel was graciously thanked for all his effort in creating the elegant and state-of-the-art offices – a place that belongs to all of Montreal. He went on to acknowledge all the Rabbonim for their input and support during the project.

Rabbi Yonah Rosner, deeply involved with the geirus program, addressed those present. He expressed his thanks to the guardians of communal Judaism, both the Beth Din and the JCC, praising our unique city and Jewish community, citing how the JCC plays such an integral role.

He then spoke directly to the geiurim, lauding them for their determination and intense love of Yiddishkeit. Chanukah, he said, is all about education, chinuch, which is what they embody.  He personally knew the barriers that many of those present had to overcome to enter the geirus program and stood in awe of them. He ended his talk with an inspirational story meant for all those present.

Rabbi Emanuel addressed those present, welcoming them to them all their new premises, for him, a labor of love. The menorah was lit by Mr. Mintz, a long-time board member, who said the brochos and started those present in singing Maor Tzur.

The Geirut Chanukah Party is always exceptional and this year was no different. All those present felt the positive vibes and holiness of the moment.