Chabad Outreach of Houston celebrates 17th Menorah lighting at City Hall

The Chabad Outreach Center and Synagogue of Houston will hold its 17th annual public Menorah lighting at 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 15 in Houston's City Hall.

The event will commemorate the lighting of the eighth Chanukah candle and honor the memories of soldiers who gave their lives for America, according to a press release.

Chanukah is an eight-day Jewish holiday that marks the end of Greek rule over the Jews and their holy temple in Jerusalem more than 2,100 years ago.

The event remembers a small band of Jews who fought huge armies for religious freedom and won. At the same time, the service will pay respects to soldiers who lost their lives while fighting for and defending the U.S.

After the presentation, synagogue members will serve Chanukah treats, Gelt and Dreidels to all participants. The event will also feature a video and Chanukah gifts for children who attend.

"The holiday of Chanukah contains a universal message for people of all faiths; namely that good will ultimately triumphs over evil, freedom over oppression, and light over darkness," said Rabbi Moishe Traxler, director of Chabad Outreach of Houston, in the press release. "The Chanukah Menorah teaches us yet another message: Just as we kindle an additional candle each night of the holiday, so too must we perform additional acts of kindness and goodness. We must not be satisfied with the goodness performed yesterday."

The Houston City Hall is at 900 Bagby St., Houston.

The Chabad Outreach Center and Synagogue is at 11000 Fondren Road, Suite B104, Houston.

For more information, call 713-774-0300 or visit www.chabadoutreach.org.