Members, Stroudsburg Temple Israel Celebrate Chanukah
Rabbi Baruch Melman, Temple Israel, Stroudsburg, PA, not only leads the Chanukah service, he also plays a key role in the entertainment. The Multi-Talented Rabbi Band Frontman took the lead at the final service of the eight-day 2018 Chanukah season. Rabbi Melman is widely known for his hands-on approach and love for music.
Although Chanukah is considered to be a “minor” Jewish holiday, it is indeed a joyous time in the Jewish faith. The celebration commemorates the re-dedication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem during the second century B.C., where Jews rose up against their Greek-Syrian oppressors in the Maccabean Revolt.
The party at Temple Israel on Sun., Dec. 9 featured a candle-lighting ceremony, blessings, the singing of Hatikvah (translated to “the hope”), Jewish holiday music, dancing and singing, traditional fare, and a visit by “Zoe the Clown.”
What’s considered to be traditional Chanukah fare? Guests can typically count on a few staples: fried potato pancakes, called Latkes (in Yiddish) and Levivot (in Hebrew), Brisket, Kugel, jelly-filled donuts, and Hanukkah Gelt. They had it all at Temple Israel as guests gathered for this winter holiday. For more information about Temple Israel and the Multi-Talented Rabbi Band Frontman, click here.
Members of Temple Israel, Stroudsburg, celebrated the final day of Chanukah with traditional blessings, fare, dancing and singing. 
During Chanukah, celebrants light candles from left to right with the center candle known as the SHAMESH. 
The party was time for family and friends to celebrate the holidays together. 
Guests bring their own MENORAH 
There were activities for adults and children. 
Rabbi Baruch Melman playing mandolin and guitar
All photos by Ken Schurman, VIP Studios, Inc., Mount Pocono, PA.
Why did Pat Boone lead a tour of Israel? Learn more about his affiliation and love for the Jewish faith in this companion article, https://joanmatsuitravelwriter.com/the-boy-on-roanoke-road-pat-boone-and-israel/
