Though ordinary olive oil that miraculously preserved a flame for eight days was replaced by an ample amount of kerosene, rabbi Rachmiel Liberman began his own Hanukkah tradition when he first lit the State House’s giant menorah 20 years ago.
Yesterday, Jews and others kept his tradition alive when they met last night at the State House as the halls were filled with traditional music performed by the youth-comprised Solomon Schechter of Greater Boston Honor Choir and the U.S. Navy to celebrate the official beginning of Hanukkah — eight days of gifts and celebration.
As choir member Morris Lypman accompanied his fellow singers on his guitar, his mother took a moment to remember how far her son and his friends had come in the small, prestigious group.
“The students start practicing with [music teacher] Judy Fahgen at the beginning of the year and look forward to this concert and the beginning of Hanukkah every year,” Lypman’s mother said.
Catching the contagious bug of the holiday spirit, Senate President Therese Murray invited revelers into her office to celebrate.
“I have decorated, and rabbi Liberman and rabbi Morris have given me their own menorahs for display,” Murray said. “Please come on through and experience the decorations.”
“Dreidels will spin across Massachusetts tonight. Please give thanks to the freedom we have here,” said Lt. Gov. Timothy Murray.
“This is an appropriate place for all of us to celebrate our religious freedom and tolerance,” said Secretary of State William Galvin. “Happy Hanukkah.”
Embracing the Jewish holiday, State Treasurer Timothy Cahill said he is tired of politically correct holiday wishes like “seasons greetings” and “happy holidays” and said he instead favors embracing each individual’s religious beliefs and traditions.
“I’m proud to be part of [the celebration],” Cahill said. “Hanukkah is a time to enjoy gifts and the holiday spirit.”