New year, new Torah
More than 2000 members of the Jewish community gathered at Dudley Page Reserve and then Dover Heights Shule (DHS) for Chanukah in the Park and the dedication of a new Torah, donated by the Assouline family.
WHILE non-Jewish families celebrated Christmas on December 25, more than 2000 members of the Jewish community gathered at Dudley Page Reserve, and then Dover Heights Shule (DHS), for a dual celebration: the annual Chanukah in the Park event and the dedication of a new Torah, donated by the Assouline family.
“Rafi and Miri Assouline, longtime members of the shul, commissioned the Sefer Torah in Israel,” explained Rabbi Motti Feldman. “It made Chanukah in the Park wonderful this year, especially being able to light the giant menorah overlooking Sydney Harbour.”
Following the lighting, the last letters were inscribed in the scroll – “a very fitting way to dedicate the Torah with the blessing and joy of so many gathered together in the spirit of Chanukah,” said Rabbi Feldman.
The Torah was then paraded along Military Road, assisted by Rose Bay Police and the Highway Patrol, accompanied by a singing, dancing crowd of adults and children.
The parade continued until it reached Dover Heights Shule, where the new scroll was dedicated, and all the synagogue’s Torahs were then taken out onto the street in celebration.
“It was a very emotional moment, and it was very special to see and experience,” said Rabbi Feldman.
Meanwhile, Dudley Page Reserve was packed with families enjoying pony rides, a mini carousel, Zorb balls, jumping castles and face painting, accompanied by live music from Sincopa to celebrate Chanukah in the Park.
Councillor Leon Goltsman spoke on behalf of Waverley Mayor Sally Betts. Also addressing the crowd were DHS president Robin Lax, Rafi Assouline and Rabbi Feldman.
“Having a Torah dedication gave us a sense of wonderful Jewish pride,” said Rabbi Feldman. “We were all singing and dancing; there was a great spirit and a great energy of Jewish unity.”
YAEL BRENDER
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