December 2011
Greetings everyone,
We are coming up to the first holiday of winter. This festival is a most significant one. Jews
celebrate Hanukkah (Hebrew for dedication). Christian commemorates the birth of Jesus. For
both religious traditions the emphasis is on love, joy, peace and hope. Both traditions
proclaim that God is the Light of the World, and whoever remains in Him will never see
darkness.
The eight days of Jewish festivities this year are December 20 to 28 commemorating the
rededication of the second temple after their victory over the Syrian oppressors about 175
BCE. After the cleansing of the desecrated temple, the high priest lighted up the menorah
with the small amount of oil available for about one day of illumination. Yet, the oil lasted eight
days until fresh oil was obtained.
December 25th was set by the church to celebrate the birth of Jesus, who reaffirmed the love
of God for all humanity.
Both traditions rejoice in the beginning of a new era anticipating and celebrating the coming
of days of peace, harmony and good will among all regardless of religious perspectives.
Elsida and I wish your remaining in the peace of God and the blessings of the Almighty as
offered by the priests of old:
The LORD bless you and keep you:
The LORD make his face to shine upon you, and be gracious to you:
The LORD lift up his countenance upon you, and give you peace.
Numbers 6:22-26.
Elsida and Jorge