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Lyndhurst Retirement Community Celebrates Chanukah with Polish Traditions and History

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2025/12/31 .. chanukah-with-polish-traditions-and-history.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Wednesday, December 31st 2025 at 22:57 GMT by Cleveland Jewish News

A Beacon of Light: Heritage of Lyndhurst Celebrates Chanukah with History, Community, and a Touch of Polish Tradition

The Heritage of Lyndhurst retirement community recently hosted a vibrant Chanukah celebration that went beyond the typical candle lighting and gift exchange. The event, detailed in an article by Cleveland Jewish News reporter Miriam Lubeck, served as a powerful demonstration of intergenerational connection, cultural preservation, and the enduring spirit of the Jewish holidays – all while honoring the unique heritage of many residents who hail from Poland.

The celebration wasn't just about marking the eight nights of Chanukah; it was an opportunity to weave together personal stories, historical context, and a touch of Polish customs that have been passed down through generations. The Heritage of Lyndhurst community boasts a significant number of residents originally from Poland, and this heritage played a central role in shaping the event’s character.

The evening began with a brief history lesson led by Rabbi Shlomo Sherman, who contextualized Chanukah's significance. He explained the story of the Maccabees – the Jewish rebels who defeated the Seleucid Empire and reclaimed the Temple in Jerusalem – and emphasized the holiday’s message of religious freedom and perseverance against oppression. This historical grounding is particularly poignant for many residents, given Poland’s own complex history with Jewish communities (as explored further on the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum website). While Poland had once been a thriving center of Jewish life, the horrors of the Holocaust decimated that population, leaving behind a legacy of loss and resilience.

A key feature of the Heritage of Lyndhurst celebration was the inclusion of traditional Polish Chanukah foods. While latkes (potato pancakes) are universally associated with Chanukah, the residents shared recipes for other dishes common in Polish Jewish homes. These included kugel – a baked noodle casserole that varies widely by family and region – and various types of pastries often enjoyed during festive occasions. The sharing of these culinary traditions fostered a sense of connection and nostalgia among the attendees, allowing them to relive cherished memories of their childhoods and families back in Poland. The article highlights how food acts as a powerful bridge across generations and continents.

Beyond the historical context and traditional foods, the celebration actively involved residents of all ages and abilities. Children from nearby schools were invited to participate in crafts and games, ensuring that younger generations learn about Chanukah traditions firsthand. This intergenerational interaction is crucial for maintaining cultural continuity and fostering a sense of community within the retirement home. The article emphasizes how these events aren’t just for the residents; they are designed to enrich the lives of everyone involved.

The event also included a candle lighting ceremony, which is central to Chanukah observances. Each night of Chanukah, one additional candle is lit on the menorah (candelabrum), symbolizing the increasing light and joy that permeates the holiday season. The article notes that several residents were called upon to participate in the candle lighting, allowing them to share personal reflections and blessings. This personalized touch made the ceremony especially meaningful for those present.

The Heritage of Lyndhurst's Chanukah celebration is part of a larger effort by the community to preserve and celebrate the cultural heritage of its residents. Heritage Senior Living, the parent company of Heritage of Lyndhurst, has demonstrated a commitment to providing culturally sensitive programming at their communities. This includes recognizing and honoring diverse backgrounds and traditions through special events, activities, and dietary accommodations. As noted in other Heritage Senior Living publications, this approach aims to create an environment where residents feel valued, respected, and connected to their roots.

The article concludes by underscoring the importance of these types of celebrations in combating feelings of isolation that can often accompany aging or relocation from familiar surroundings. Chanukah, with its themes of light, hope, and community, provides a powerful opportunity for connection and renewal. The Heritage of Lyndhurst’s event served as a shining example of how cultural traditions can be a source of strength, comfort, and joy, especially for those who have experienced displacement or loss. It was more than just a holiday celebration; it was a testament to the enduring power of heritage, community, and the human spirit. The success of this Chanukah event promises to inspire similar gatherings in the future, ensuring that the unique cultural richness of Heritage of Lyndhurst’s residents continues to be celebrated for years to come.

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