Chanukah messages from National Leaders



Malcolm Turnbull and Bill Shorten wish the Jewish Community Happy Chanukkah.


 

MALCOLM TURNBULL – Prime Minister of Australia

Lucy and I want to wish the Jewish Community here in Australia and all around the world a very happy and relaxing Chanukah for 5778. Chanukah, the festival of lights, celebrates the miracle of the oil in the Temple in Jerusalem.

The triumph of light over darkness and the long-lasting desire for a Jewish homeland for the Jewish people.

As Australia’s Jewish community gathers over the eight days of Chanukah, may the flicker of each menorah flame recall the miracle of the oil and its enduring message of freedom over oppression.

We should also use this time to reflect on the blessings of the present day, our families, friends and our great fortune to live in Australia, a land of peace and tolerance where diversity is valued, celebrated and underpinned by mutual respect.

Australia is the most successful multicultural nation on earth, and with each passing day this becomes more evident.

Against a twilight of widening divisions and deepening conflict around the world, our nation shines brightly as a beacon.

There is much to celebrate and be thankful for at Chanukah this year.

I wish you on behalf of all Australians, Chanukah Sameach.

BILL SHORTEN – Federal Leader of the Opposition

On behalf of the Federal Parliamentary Labor Party, it gives me great pleasure to wish the Australian Jewish Community a Happy Chanukah.

Chanukah, the eight day festival of light celebrates the triumph of light over darkness, victory of good over evil, knowledge over ignorance and hope over despair. It commemorates the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem at the time of the Maccabean war.

Chanukah is a time for celebrating with friends and family, whilst also reflecting on all those who are doing it tough – both here in Australia and around the world.

Let us use this joyful time to try and do something to bring a little bit of generosity and cheer into the lives of those less fortunate.

I wish you and your families a Happy Chanukah, filled with peace and love, along with many latkes and sufganiyot.

Chanukah Sameach!