Berlin is preparing to hold its central public Hanukkah candle lighting on Sunday evening under increased security, following the terrorist attack in Australia. At least 55 large menorahs will be placed across the German capital throughout the eight days of Hanukkah.
Following the conclusion of Chancellor Friedrich Merz's visit to Israel, a decision was made to install public menorahs in nearly every federal government ministry. Each menorah will be lit on one of the holiday's nights together with the serving minister and Berlin's chief rabbi, Rabbi Yehuda Teichtal.
At the heart of the events will be the largest menorah in Europe, which will be erected at the Brandenburg Gate, one of Germany's most prominent symbols of freedom and democracy. In recent years, the site has also become a symbol of Jewish renewal in the heart of the country.
Federal ministries to light menorahs
As part of the initiative, nearly every federal government ministry will host a public menorah lighting ceremony during Hanukkah, attended by the relevant minister and Rabbi Teichtal. Through these events, the German government is expressing its commitment to strengthening Jewish life in the country.
Merz himself has previously taken part in a Hanukkah candle lighting with Rabbi Teichtal at the headquarters of the Christian Democratic Union. This year, menorahs will also be lit at the headquarters of all major democratic political parties. "This will be a clear statement of unity in the face of hatred and extremism," Rabbi Teichtal said.
He added that "the chancellor's warm words in Israel, expressing steadfast friendship with the Jewish people, are now being given direct expression through public Hanukkah candle lightings across Berlin. At a time when Jews are facing serious challenges around the world, the menorahs in Germany's public spaces send an unambiguous message: Light will overcome darkness, and solidarity will overcome hatred."
