12/14/2025
Dear Friends,
This morning, we woke up to heartbreaking news from Sydney, Australia. A horrific terror attack took place at a Chanukah celebration. Innocent people were murdered simply for gathering to bring light into the world.
Among them was Rabbi Eli Schlanger, a beloved Chabad emissary who was preparing to light one of the first public menorahs in the world this Chanukah. His life was taken in an act of pure hatred. Our hearts are with his family, his community, and all those who are wounded or grieving. May his memory be a blessing.
Our hearts are broken as we feel the pain of the families directly impacted by this tragedy. There are no words that can truly comfort them, and all of us.
It is chilling to realize what the attackers were trying to do.
They chose this moment because they wanted to send fear across the world.
They wanted Jews everywhere to think twice before gathering, before singing, before shining their light.
But they do not understand who we are.
Chanukah was born in a time of darkness, when the world tried to crush the Jewish spirit. And yet our people searched for even a tiny flame - and when they found it, they lit it with strength and pride. That little flame has never gone out; it’s still glowing in us today, over 2,000 years later.
As the Rebbe once said in the wake of a horrific attack on the Chabad village in Israel: “Every blow meant to break us must become a reason to grow stronger, for as they tried to suppress us, so we multiplied and flourished.”
If you weren’t planning on lighting the Menorah this year, please light one. If you need a Menorah, we have extras for you.
Even one small flame makes a difference.
That is our story. That is our identity.
We don’t hide. We shine.
And that is why Chanukah matters more than ever.
Tomorrow, Monday, December 15th at 5:00pm, we will gather as a community. Please join us at Del Lago Golf Club.
Not because we are ignoring the pain, but because we refuse to let fear win.
We will stand together - stronger, louder, prouder - and we will bring more light into this world.
Please know that your safety is our top priority. We are thankful to the Pima County Sheriffs Department who will be sending a team of deputies.
But beyond security, we have something even stronger: unity.
So come. Bring your family. Bring a friend.
Warm your hands with hot latkes and your heart with Jewish pride.
Let the world see that when darkness tries to intimidate us, we answer with light.
A small flame can push away a great amount of darkness.
And tonight, we will light that flame together.
May the lights of this Chanukah bring comfort, courage, and hope to our entire community - and to Jews around the world.
Be the light. Now more than ever.
With strength, love, and prayers,
Rabbi Sruly & Chavie