The first candle on the Menorah shone bright at Bannerman Park as Hanukkah celebrations officially began.

The local Chabad of St. John’s held their Third Annual Menorah Lighting Ceremony yesterday afternoon. Lieutenant Governor Judy Foote helped light the shammash, the candle that is used to light the eight candles of Hanukkah.

Rabbi Chanan Chernitsky led the ceremony. He says the Menorah shows us how one candle can light a dark room and that one good deed can make a huge impact.

A moment of silence was held for the victims of the kosher market shooting in Jersey City and for anyone who has been a victim of prejudice. Rabbi Chernitsky says he looks forward to this annual ceremony, as he is able to meet new people, even those who do not celebrate Hanukkah.

He says it is humbling to see so many people who are not part of the Jewish community come to celebrate and show support. He says it is a reflection of how accepting the people of Newfoundland and Labrador are.