As Chanukah comes to a close, we must continue to take its message along for the rest of the year. The lights of the menorah emphasize light, warmth, and unity, especially this year as the Jewish community continues to come together in unprecedented ways since the terror attacks of October 7.
The final days of Chanukah are in the Hebrew month of Tevet, which the Talmud describes as a month in which we share warmth with one another due to the winter cold. When it’s cold–and cold can be literally or figuratively–we are reminded of the importance of sharing our inner warmth with others. When it’s warm outside, it’s easier to overlook our responsibility of being there for one another, but when it’s cold outside, the inner warmth of our souls radiates and creates the desire to share.
So as we transition from the light of Chanukah into the rest of winter, we cannot allow the spirit of warmth and unity to wane. We must resolve to continue building on the days and weeks that preceded, making Jewish unity a permanent fixture in everything that we do. As we go about our lives, especially in the cold of winter, we warm ourselves up by sharing the light and warmth with those around us. And of course, the more we share with others, the warmer our own souls will become.
Wishing you and warm and bright Shabbat,
Rabbi Chaim & Chanie
The first night of Chanukah Community members gathered to "Light to Unite with Israel" at a GLOW CHANUKAH at the Park at Uptown Park in cooperation with the Uptown Houston District. It was fun for all ages with an Amazing Glow Show, Giant Glow Menorah Lighting, Fresh Donuts, Latkes, Gelt and Drinks. Children got to make greeting Cards for IDF Soldiers and a Chanukah Craft while watching the Chabad Outreach Car Menorah police escorted motorcade Drive-By! We thank our Proud Sponsor Stellar Bank. Last week we posted from Channel 2 and 26, we do not have the clip from Channel 13. Check out the pictures by Hagit Bibi here!
Celebrating Chanukah at “The Chocolate Factory” on the third night of Chanukah, Dec. 9, about 100 young Jewish professionals gathered at Chabad of Uptown. The Chanukah fun was hosted by YJP Houston with Rabbi Chaim and Chanie Lazaroff. The group enjoyed Chanukah with a chocolate-themed buffet, treats and drinks, while making Chanukah greeting cards for IDF soldiers. Many mitzvot opportunities and Jewish items were included in a raffle. Young professionals stayed well into the night, sharing the magic of Chanukah with their peers and great Chanukah music. Chocolate treats included dreidels made of chocolate, hot cocoa cocktails, a chocolate fountain and an Oompa Loompa Latke Bar. Read the full report on the JHV
Thank you Hagit Bibi Photography for the awesome pics!
Was wonderful to have a meaningful Lunch & Learn class on "Why Chanukah?" with engaging conversation surrounding the kabbalistic leaning and meanings of Chanukah and the history of the dedication of the Mishkan, the first and second Batei Hamikdash and re-dedication of the Beis Hamikdash in the story of Chanukah!
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Shabbos Parshas Mikeitz
Friday, December 15, 3 Teves
Shabbos Candle Lighting & Mincha 5:06 pm
Kabbalat Shabbat at 6:00 pm
RSVP for Shabbat Dinner www.chabaduptown.org/shabbatdinner
Shabbos, December 16, 4 Teves
Chassidus at 9 am
Services at 10 am
Followed by Shabbos Lunch Kiddush & Farbrengen
Mincha at 5:00 pm
Seder Niggunim
Maariv, Havdalla and Shabbos ends at 6:04 pm
Living Torah
Friday, December 22, Fast of 10 Tevet
Fast Begins at 5:53 am
4:50 pm Mincha with Torah Reading - PLEASE BE ON TIME
Shabbos Candle Lighting at 5:09 pm
Fast Ends at 5:54 pm
As fasting on Shabbos is a prohibition, under these circumstances you should make kiddush as soon as possible, even if you are delayed until the "sixth hour" begins.
6:00 pm Shabbos Dinner - Kiddush breaking the Fast
Happy Final Hours of Chanukah & Good Shabbos!