In a powerful display of community and faith, the Jewish community of London, Ontario, gathered to light a Hanukkah menorah outside City Hall on Sunday, December 15, 2025. The event, a symbol of hope and perseverance, proceeded with a notable spirit of defiance and resilience, underscored by a visible police presence in the wake of a recent deadly attack on Jewish individuals in Australia.
A Celebration of Light Amidst Global Darkness
The ceremony took place as Jewish communities worldwide observed the festival of lights, which commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem. This year's celebration carried a heavier emotional weight following the tragic shooting at Bondi Beach in Australia, which targeted Jewish victims. Despite the somber backdrop, the London gathering was determined to project a message of unity and strength.
The event featured the traditional lighting of the large public menorah, a ritual that marks each night of the eight-day holiday. Attendees, including families and community leaders, participated in prayers and songs, emphasizing the holiday's core themes of religious freedom and miraculous light overcoming darkness.
Heightened Security and a Defiant Spirit
A key and visible aspect of this year's ceremony was the increased security. London police officers were present in significant numbers around the perimeter of the City Hall grounds, a direct response to the overseas tragedy and a measure to ensure the safety of all participants.
This visible security detail did not dampen the celebratory atmosphere but instead reinforced the community's resolve. Organizers and attendees echoed a sentiment heard across Canada: that fear would not dictate their traditions or their public expressions of faith. The message was clear—the community would not hide or scale back its celebrations in the face of intimidation or violence.
Community Resilience in the Face of Adversity
The London event mirrors similar gatherings across the country, from Edmonton to Waterloo, where Jewish communities have chosen to celebrate Hanukkah with both heavy hearts and heightened resolve. The shared experience has fostered a renewed sense of solidarity within the Canadian Jewish community and prompted expressions of support from municipal leaders and interfaith groups.
The menorah lighting at London City Hall stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of a community committed to its traditions. It demonstrates how public celebrations of faith can serve as acts of resilience, particularly when conducted safely and with the support of local authorities. As one participant noted, the light of the menorah serves as a powerful beacon, illuminating hope and pushing back against the shadows of hatred and fear.
