As Chanukah approaches, let us all bring light to others!
In the coming days we will take our Chanukiot (menorahs!) down off the shelves, dust them off, find our candles, perhaps buy a gift of two for the kids in our lives, grate some potatoes for Latkes – and enjoy our wonderful Festival of Lights – Chanukah. (The first candle is lit on Sunday night Dec 14.)
As we know, Chanukah is a celebration of light triumphing over darkness and religious freedom; it carries potent messages of hope and resilience, messages that we very much need these days. Our narrative recalls our people’s determination to rededicate the Temple after the Greek-Seleucid warriors under Antiochus, took it over, defaming it with idol worship. There are many themes folded into Chanukah, among them is a universal yearning for a safe, stable sanctuary.
This theme of the fundamental human need for a secure dwelling and a sense of belonging is ringing out loudly this year. Homelessness in our area and around the nation is on the rise. While our Ohel Ya’akov project is one response to addressing the housing crisis, this year TRS will host an overflow Hypothermia Center for Fairfax County. TRS will be welcoming guests in our building from December 21-27. They will arrive at 8 pm when we hope to have greeters present, and food to offer; and leave at 6:30 am, bringing a bagged breakfast we prepare with them. If you would like to help by bringing a welcoming presence in the evening or early morning, or by providing snacks and baked goods, see below for details and signups.
Chanukah encourages us to recognize this shared human dignity and the fundamental right to “return home,” urging a communal responsibility to help those for whom the concept of home is distant. The core miracle of the oil that lasted eight nights highlights the power of perseverance. It also shows us the potential for limited resources to yield abundant results. This miraculous story provides a poignant metaphor for our charitable endeavors: even small acts of generosity, giving of a few hours of our time, can create a lasting, meaningful impact.
Chanukah encourages us to become beacons of hope, dedicated to ensuring that the light of dignity, warmth, and stable shelter reaches every person, especially those enduring their darkest days on the streets. Join us in supporting those in need this year.
Shabbat Shalom and Happy Chanukah,
Rabbi Amy Schwartzman
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Since 2005, the Hypothermia Prevention Program has ensured that no adult in Fairfax County has to sleep outside in freezing temperatures. Shelters and partner faith communities provide warm beds, meals, and essential services including clothing, employment support, and housing connections. Each season, more than 1,000 people rely on this safety net. We need volunteers to serve meals, greet guests, offer baked goods, hand out bagged lunches, and help ensure every person who walks through our doors feels cared for. Your help truly matters. Please click below to sign up.
Click here to volunteer at the TRS Hypothermia Overflow Shelter
