Speaking to Darkness

by Rabbi Stephanie Kennedy

December 4, 2025 • 14 Kislev 5786

Ben Shahn, We Kindle These Lights (Hanukkah), 1961

As we reach the end of the year and prepare for Hanukkah, I’m grateful to pause and reflect on all we’ve built together. This is my fourth year as Rabbi-Educator and Director of Family Learning, and it’s been so meaningful to see how Jewish Gateways has continued to grow—not just in numbers, but in the depth of our learning and community. 

Lighting Hanukkah candles this month reminds us of an essential message: even a small amount of light can push back a great deal of darkness. This feels especially important today, when many of us are carrying uncertainty or heaviness. Speaking to darkness in the world, Rabbi Irving Greenberg wrote,

 The proper response, as Hanukkah teaches, is not to curse the darkness but to light a candle.

Hanukkah teaches that our actions matter, and that even small steps toward kindness, connection, or joy can brighten the lives of those around us. And at Jewish Gateways, the ways we learn together, support one another, celebrate, and welcome one another to become more than moments of community—they become small flames, quiet acts of resistance against the dark, light we kindle together. 

As we enter the holiday, I invite you to take a moment to reflect: What light can you bring to your own life, your relationships, or our wider community this Hanukkah?

It is in this spirit that I’m excited to share three short blogs that highlight different parts of our year: Adult Learning, Community Events & Celebrations, and Family Learning.

Thank you for being part of Jewish Gateways. I look forward to another year of learning, connection, and light.

Warmly,

Rabbi Steph