Chanuka Visit with Rahm Emanuel

As Jews around the world ushered in the first light of Chanukah, the newly elected Mayor of Chicago, Rahm Emanuel hosted Rabbi Meir Chai Benhiyoun, his wife Rivka and their two youngest children, Ruth Shaina and Levi Yitzvhak, in the mayoral chambers for a pre–Chanukah visit.

Due to prior commitments the Mayor is unable to participate in the annual Menorah lighting ceremony at Daley Plaza, the city’s central square.

Previously, former Mayor Richard M. Daley would assist in kindling the giant, thirty two foot Menorah.

“It was a very warm and friendly encounter,” said Rabbi Benhiyoun, reflecting upon his conversations with Mayor Emanuel. “I asked him about his new job and the new challenges he is facing as Mayor. He told me: ‘It really depends on how you face challenges. I see challenges as an opportunity to learn something new.’ A humbling and uplifting approach,” said Benhiyoun.

An approach Rabbi Benhiyoun relates to as director of Chabad in Downtown Chicago.

For Levi Yitzchak, the Rabbi’s youngest, this was his second moment with Mr. Emanuel. On Chanukah in 2009, Levi, who is now twelve years old, won a national essay contest which he recited on Capitol Hill for the crowds gathered at the public Menorah lighting ceremony in Washington, DC.

After the ceremony, Levi and then White House Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel posed together for a photo. This time, Mr. Emanuel graciously suggested that they duplicate the moment and take another snapshot together.

Seems like the Mayor and the Rabbi are off to a promising start; consistent with Rabbi Benhiyoun’s longstanding friendship with previous Mayor Daley.

Plans are already under way to host Mayor Rahm Emanuel at next year’s ceremony.

For info about this year’s Chanukah programs with Chabad in Downtown Chicago please visit www.centerforjewishlife.com/lightsup.