Renee Werbin’s Chanukah Message for 2025

Chanukah, the Festival of Lights, feels especially poignant this year. As Jewish communities around the world face a troubling rise in antisemitism, the holiday’s ancient message of courage and enduring light carries deeper significance. Rooted in the story of the Maccabees, Chanukah carries a message of remarkable courage.

The Maccabees fought valiantly to reclaim the Temple and restore their freedom to worship. In doing so, they revived the spiritual heart of their people against overwhelming odds. Chanukah reminds us that even in challenging times, hope has the power to shine brightly.

The miracle of the oil — burning for eight nights when there was only enough for one — resonates in a way that feels almost personal this year. Each menorah placed in a window becomes not just a symbol, but a heartbeat: a quiet, unwavering declaration that Jewish light will not dim, no matter how strong the winds outside may blow.

Families turn to traditions that feel like anchors. The scent of latkes frying in oil, the sweetness of sufganiyot, the laughter of children spinning dreidels, these small, familiar moments become acts of comfort, love, and continuity. They remind us that Jewish life is not only surviving; it is still filled with joy, warmth, and connection.

As antisemitism rises, Chanukah’s call to bring more light into the world feels more urgent than ever. Standing together, speaking out against hate, educating others, supporting Jewish organizations, showing up at community events, and calling out misinformation all become meaningful ways to fight back. Acts of kindness, solidarity, and advocacy each send a clear message that hatred will not define us, and that the Jewish community will continue to shine with strength and pride.

This year, the glow of the candles feels almost like a prayer — gentle yet fierce. A promise that identity, faith, and love will outshine darkness. As the menorah’s light spills into homes and windows, it carries a message that is both ancient and urgent: the Jewish spirit endures, and it will continue to shine. Chanukah invites all of us to carry that light forward.

May your Chanukah lights surround you with love and glow with the promise of brighter days ahead. Chag Sameach.

Renee Werbin is the President, SRI Travel; Publisher and Co-Founder, Travelgirl Magazine.