Chanukah celebrated in Australia’s Capital

Chabadinfo Updates

Crown Heights Updates

4 years ago

Chanukah celebrated in Australia’s Capital

A crowd of about 100 VIPs gathered together to enjoy Canberra’s annual major Chanukah event at the ACT Parliament organized by Chabad ACT. Attendees who enjoyed the function included ACT Politicians from both sides of politics and Ambassadors and Diplomats from Argentina, Belgium, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Ireland, Poland, Romania and the U.A.E. • Full Story, Photos

A crowd of about 100 VIPs gathered together to enjoy Canberra’s annual major Chanukah event at the ACT Parliament organized by Chabad ACT.

Attendees who enjoyed the function included ACT Politicians from both sides of politics and Ambassadors and Diplomats from Argentina, Belgium, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Ireland, Poland, Romania and the U.A.E. Also joining representatives of the Jewish community at the celebration were leaders from most of Canberra’s large faith groups.

Rabbi Shmueli Feldman, Chairman of Chabad ACT, who MC’d the popular function being held for the sixth consecutive year, acknowledged all the VIPs and commenced the proceedings by inviting Rabbi Eli Feldman of Newtown Synagogue to deliver an invocation dedicated to all of those affected by the ongoing horrific bushfires, followed by the singing of the Australian National Anthem.

Rabbi Shmueli then gave the annual Chanukah address and encouraged everyone to rise to their calling by being the heroes the world needs to make the next miracle and to bring about world peace.

Minister Chris Steel MLA, also representing the Chief Minister, thanked Chabad ACT for all they do for the community in Canberra and spoke of his visit to Israel, connecting it with the important role the Chabad ACT Jewish community plays in Canberra, gleaning from the messages of Chanukah.

Mr Alistair Coe MLA, Leader of the Opposition, spoke of the contribution of the Jewish community throughout history and until today in Canberra. He praised the tireless work of Rabbi Shmueli and Rebbetzin Chasia Feldman in the Jewish and wider Canberra community and lauded the initiative of Canberra’s first Jewish school being opened by Chabad ACT in February 2020.

Mrs Nicole Lawder MLA, Deputy Leader of the Opposition, read the letter sent for the event by the Prime Minister of Australia the Hon Scott Morrison MP.

ACT Minister for Health, Ms Rachel Stephen-Smith read the letter sent for the occasion by Federal Opposition Leader, the Hon Anthony Albenese MP.