More than 100 people gathered Dec. 17 for Marblehead’s second annual community menorah lighting. Sarah Freudenberger, who lives in Marblehead and is a cantor at Congregation Shirat Hayam in Swampscott, organized the event. The menorah is located on the lawn of National Grand Bank on Pleasant Street.
Freudenberger led a chorus of children and adults in several Hanukkah songs, including “Dreidel, Dreidel, Dreidel.” Temple Emanu-El Rabbi Jenn Mangold and Temple Sinai Rabbi Michael Schwartz spoke about Hanukkah’s message of miracles and light.
Freudenberger and National Grand Bank President Jim Nye flipped the switch on the menorah as the crowd cheered.
After more singing, everyone was treated to a sufganiyot, or jelly donut, a traditional Hanukkah dessert.
This year, Hanukkah begins on Dec. 25 and continues for eight nights.
Editor Leigh Blander is an experienced TV, radio and print journalist.
