On 17 December 2025, the Plymouth Jewish Community CIC hosted its Chanukah celebration, a festival of light that this year took on an added and deeply poignant significance. Against a backdrop of global uncertainty and recent violence, the gathering became not only a moment of celebration but also a powerful expression of unity, hope, and shared humanity.
In a visible and heartfelt demonstration of inter-faith solidarity, Bishop Nicholas attended the event, alongside the diocesan Head of Safeguarding and the Head of Caritas. Their presence was a clear sign of support for the Jewish community and for people of all faiths during a time of heightened anxiety and grief. It conveyed a message of compassion and resolve, standing firmly against hatred and violence in all its forms. This solidarity was especially meaningful in the wake of the recent terror attack at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia, where a Hanukkah celebration was targeted, resulting in numerous deaths and injuries during what should have been a joyful festival of lights. News of the attack reverberated across faith communities worldwide, intensifying feelings of vulnerability while also strengthening the resolve of many to stand together against antisemitism and extremism. In this context, the Plymouth gathering served as a reminder that acts of violence will not have the final word, and that light can still shine even in the darkest moments.
The attendance of Christian leaders reflected a shared commitment across the Southwest to stand together in the face of the growing challenges confronting faith communities, both locally and internationally. It acknowledged the pain felt by many within the Jewish community while affirming that they do not stand alone. The presence of Caritas, the Catholic agency for social action, further emphasised the importance of practical solidarity, compassion for those who suffer, and a collective responsibility to work for peace and justice.
At the event, faith leaders, community leaders, charities, and members of the wider community gathered to watch the giant Menorah being lit by Rabbi Mendy. As the candles were kindled, prayers for peace were shared and a collective stand was reaffirmed against antisemitism, intolerance, and all forms of hatred. The lighting of the Menorah – a central symbol of Chanukah – resonated strongly as a sign of hope, resilience, and the enduring power of faith.
The diversity of those in attendance underscored a shared belief that faith, hope, and community resilience must prevail over fear and division, particularly at a time when many around the world are seeking courage and comfort. The gathering highlighted the strength that comes from standing together across traditions, recognising common values, and refusing to allow violence or prejudice to fracture community bonds. In a statement this week, the Catholic Bishops of England and Wales have talked about the importance of joy, hope, peace and love and the celebration of Christmas as “our lived response in opposition to those who seek division”.
Ultimately, the Chanukah celebration in Plymouth was more than a single event. It was a profound expression of inter-faith friendship across the Southwest, reinforcing relationships that transcend individual traditions and affirm shared values of respect, dignity, and mutual support. In lighting the candles together, those present bore witness to a simple but powerful truth: that solidarity itself can be a light, offering hope and reassurance in difficult times.