The Jewish community marked the fifth night of Hanukkah on Sunday, as more than 100 people gathered for a celebration at the Bronx Jewish Center in Pelham Parkway.
Rabbi Saaid Pewzner lit the fifth candle on the menorah, which is a sign of perseverance that the Maccabees survived persecution thousands of years ago.
The festivity featured music, food and treats.
Pewzner told News 12 that Sunday’s celebration was the largest the Bronx Jewish Center had ever held.
As they observed Hanukkah here at home, Pewzner said they’re also reminded of the conflict in the Middle East.
“When our brothers and sisters are, right now, sitting [as] hostages in terrible places, we are reminded that we need to bring them their light,” said Pewzner. “Let’s hope and pray…they should be free and united with their families and be able to light the Hanukkah candles all together.”
The Jewish community will continue this year’s Hanukkah celebration through Jan. 2.