“Many of us in the local community are feeling broken, are feeling shattered, such senseless hatred,” said Rabbi Levi Teldon, Chabad of Downtown San Antonio.
SAN ANTONIO — Members of San Antonio’s Jewish community gathered Tuesday night at the Pearl to light a menorah, choosing unity and resilience in the wake of a deadly attack during a Hanukkah celebration in Australia that left 15 people dead.
Authorities said the attack was inspired by the Islamic State, sending shockwaves through Jewish communities worldwide.
In San Antonio, the tragedy prompted reflection — and a determination to continue celebrating despite fear.
Rabbi Levi Teldon of Chabad of Downtown San Antonio said many community members reached out to him after learning of the attack, asking what it meant, and how they could still observe Hanukkah.
“Many of us in the local community are feeling broken, are feeling shattered — such senseless hatred,” Teldon said.
Still, he said, the menorah lighting at the Pearl carried special meaning this year.
“This year, when we’re facing so much darkness and uncertainty, it means a lot to be able to gather together — to comfort each other, to find hope and light,” he said.
Teldon said several local families were personally affected by the tragedy, giving Hanukkah a renewed message of actively adding light to the world.
“As we look at the flames, we think about how we can all add light in our own lives, in our own homes, in our own families and communities,” he said.
Community member Eartha Powell said Hanukkah is especially meaningful during times of hardship, calling the celebration a reminder that faith and joy endure even in the face of evil.
“The message is very clear that despite the tragedy, we will keep going,” Powell said. “We will show our joy. We will fill in for those hurting hearts, and we will keep Hashem, our God, in mind as we move through this Hanukkah season.”
For younger attendees like Zachariah Powell, the attack was frightening, but the gathering offered reassurance.
“It’s comforting,” he said. “And it brings joy to other people in this community.”
Rabbi Teldon noted an increased law enforcement presence at the event, which he said added an extra layer of security and peace of mind. He emphasized that fear will not define the community’s response.
“Just like the menorah’s light, it’s important that we don’t give up in the face of darkness,” he said. “That we continue to be resilient, that we continue to be there for each other — because together, we create an enormous amount of light that banishes much darkness.”