Chabad at the University of Central Florida will be bringing Chanukah cheer to the UCF campus throughout the week by hosting parties, various activities and a public menorah lighting.
A menorah lighting and toy drive will take place Tuesday night at 6 p.m. on the free speech lawn in front of the Student Union. Chabad will also be handing out menorahs around the campus.
“Chanukah is not just the commemoration of a situation past, but its message and lessons relate to each and every one of us today. In short, Chanukah is the celebration of the small over the many, the seemingly weak over the strong. It is about determination and faith and trusting that when we are doing the right thing with the end goal in mind, we can overcome all challenges in our way,” co-director of Chabad at UCF Rabbi Chaim Lipskier said.
The night and toy drive are supported by Alpha Epsilon Pi, Alpha Epsilon Phi, Zeta Beta Tau and Knights for Israel, according to co-director of Chabad at UCF, Rivkie Lipskier.
“On Chanukah we publicize the miracle that took place by lighting our menorah in places where all can see. For Jewish students this is especially powerful to know that even if they are a minority on campus, they should always be proud of who they are and what they represent. And whenever faced with adversity or challenge, we should never try to fight the darkness directly but rather add light as the light will instantaneously make the darkness disappear,” Rivkie said.
Rivkie also mentioned that President Hitt will be in attendance and will light the first candle on the Menorah.
Students are encouraged to bring toys to donate to JAFCO, Jewish Adoptions Foster Care Options. Online donations will also be accepted here. Make sure to add Chanukah toy drive in the comments.
Latkes and donuts will be served at the event. There will also be menorahs and dreidels for anyone who needs one.
For more information on Chabad at UCF, visit their website.
