Embracing Light and Community: UCL's Menorah Lighting Celebration

On the first night of Chanukah this year, December 7, 2023, the UCL main quad came alive with the vibrant spirit of the Jewish community, including students, staff, and their families, to light the first candle of the menorah. This special event was organised by the UCL Jewish Society, the largest Jewish society in London.

The Chanukah celebration involves lighting candles on the menorah, starting with one on the first night and adding an additional candle each subsequent night. This symbolic act represents the triumph of light over darkness and carries a profound message of hope and positivity.

Honouring the spirit of Chanukah, the Jewish Society hosted a delightful social gathering following the Menorah lighting. Attendees were treated to a spread of traditional dishes, including the beloved potato latkes and applesauce to name a few—a timeless and essential element of the celebration. The evening's festivities included heartfelt singing and meaningful blessings, which contributed to the joyous atmosphere. The event concluded with a palpable sense of warmth and community bonding.

Chanukah is an opportunity for the Jewish community at UCL to share their traditions and values with the broader student body. This celebration extends beyond religion; it is a testament to the power of community, demonstrating how people from diverse backgrounds can come together to celebrate shared values.

Anthony Orkin, the University's Antisemitism Programme Lead and one of the driving forces behind Jewish community-building, emphasises the significance of the Chanukah message. He reflects, ‘Chanukah for me is about community and unity and celebrating the message of hope and that light will always overcome darkness. It is wonderful that Chanukah at UCL is being celebrated so publicly and proudly with a menorah in the Main Quad. The candle lighting at UCL on the first night was a special occasion that was enjoyed by a large crowd, with blessings, singing and eating traditional food like latkes and sufganiyot.’

For UCL students experiencing their first winter in the UK, the Menorah lighting serves as a beacon of light and a reminder that they are not alone. The university actively encourages students to engage with various community groups, such as the Jewish Society, which plays a vital role in creating a sense of belonging and providing countless opportunities for connection.

Amidst the vibrant chatter and laughter of students eagerly waiting for the first candle to be lit, some shared their sentiments. One student expressed, "UCL's Jewish community has been nothing like I imagined it would be. I feel truly welcomed and thrilled to be in a space where individuals from diverse backgrounds unite to celebrate something meaningful.” At the social event after the Menorah lighting another student reminisced about Chanukah back at home, “Honestly, I was so worried about celebrating Chanukah away from my family for the first time. But the Jewish student community at UCL is so strong, the traditional food and singing bring back the warmth of celebrating with my family back home.”

Reaching out for support with your faith can be challenging, but UCL is here to help. Discover how you can connect and share in this article Exploring Multifaith and Interfaith Support at UCL. Whether you're looking for a friendly conversation or need some assistance, rest assured that support is here for you, no matter your faith.

As we approach the festive season and the festivals of light, it is essential to recognize the significance of such celebrations in fostering unity and dispelling the metaphorical darkness that winter can bring. The Menorah lighting at UCL exemplifies the power of community events within the student body, providing a source of joy, connection, and shared traditions.

As the Menorah is lit in UCL's main quad, may it serve as a beacon of hope and a reminder that, even in challenging times, the collective power of goodness and unity prevails.