Shocked and horrified that once again a Jewish holiday and a religious festival Chanukah celebration was marred by a violent act of terrorism at Bondi Beach in Australia, Luton’s faith communities, condemned without reservation, this attack and every such form of hatred, prejudice, and discrimination directed at any person or community because of their religion, ethnicity, or identity.
In a statement, the Luton Council of Faiths said, “All forms of violence, terrorism and extremism, contradict humanitarian values. Our hearts grieve for the lives lost, and we stand shoulder to shoulder with all those who are mourning, injured, or affected by this tragedy.”
Prof Zafar Khan, Chair of the Luton Council of Faiths said, “Chanukah is a festival of light, resilience, and hope—we join our Jewish brothers and sisters, locally and globally, in affirming our collective commitment to peace, justice, compassion, and unity. In this moment of sorrow, may the light of Chanukkah inspire us all to dispel darkness with solidarity, to confront hatred with courage, and to nurture harmony among all people.”
Just before Christmas, several dignitaries The Lord Lieutenant, High Sheriff, Police & Crime Commissioner of Bedfordshire, MP for Luton South, the C of E Bishop for Luton, and people from Luton’s diverse faith communities joined the Luton Jewish community’s Chanukkah celebrations. They lit the Chanukah Menorah – a special nine-branched candelabrum, symbolising the miracle of the Temple oil that lasted eight days.
Thanking everyone, Mr Brian Green, President of the Luton United Synagogue, said "Your presence, your words of comfort, your support and solidarity are appreciated. Perhaps, one day, the Luton message and spirit of respect and tolerance will be replicated across other towns in the UK, and globally too.”
He added, “All of us from diverse backgrounds have similar life experiences, struggles and have common shared aspirations for a better world. It is therefore important that we put aside our differences, celebrate our common heritages as humankind, and work together for the common good.”
Bishop Richard Atkinson said, “Let us all hope for a peaceful world, for everyone, everywhere. May the Chanukah lights of this year bring an end to all the darkness in the world.”
Everyone was served with the delicious traditional Chanukah treats of doughnuts and “potato latkes” (rostis).
Luton Jewish community’s Chanukkah celebrations joined by several dignitaries and people from different faiths.
Mr Brian Green, President of the Luton United Synagogue thanked everyone for their support and solidarity.