A local rabbi celebrated Hanukkah this year at the White House.
Rabbi Levi Hodakov, Director of Chabad of Clearwater, a branch of the world's largest Jewish organization, was invited to attend the Hanukkah reception being hosted by President Barack Obama and the First Lady on Wednesday afternoon.
“It’s an honor to have been invited to celebrate Chanukah with President Obama and the First Lady. The Chanukah Menorah symbolizes liberty, and celebrating this festival at the White House is evidence of the religious freedom and rights that this great country affords us." Hodakov said.
Obama on Hanukkah says small acts can make miracles
President Obama says Hanukkah teaches that one act of faith can make a miracle.
Obama is reflecting on the holiday's meaning during a White House reception marking the second day of the eight-day Jewish holiday also known as the Festival of Lights.
Obama says the light of hope must outlast the fires of hate. He says with faith, one's light can shine brighter than anyone could imagine, but it's up to individuals to spark the fire.
Obama is also tying the themes of Hanukkah to the return of Alan Gross, a Jewish-American released by Cuba after five years in captivity. He's telling the story of the Maccabees, who managed to defeat their more powerful Syrian oppressors.
Obama says that in captivity, Gross fought back and never gave up.