This Chanukah, Moriah’s lower school celebrated with a full week of ruach, excitement and fun. To kick off the festivities, on the first day of Chanukah lower school and middle school classes joined together to participate in one of Moriah’s oldest and most beloved Chanukah traditions—Cafe Chanukah. The students and their buddies enjoyed sufganiyot, sang along with “HaSivivon” and worked together to answer questions in an exciting Kahoot game show.

On the second day of Chanukah, there was a palpable air of anticipation as students eagerly awaited the arrival of singing sensation Benny Friedman. From the very first note that he sang, the children and their teachers were on their feet, dancing and singing together with ruach and energy that kept going strong even when the music had ended.

On erev Shabbat Chanukah the lower school was treated to a special oneg Shabbat, during which the children enjoyed the usual oneg components like kiddush and Shabbat songs, along with some special Chanukah additions, like potato latkes and chocolate gelt. After a short break for Shabbat Chanukah, the fun continued as the sixth day of Chanukah brought with it a carnival, prepared by the shlichot and run by fifth grade students.

To top off the excitement of a most memorable week of programming, the last two days of Chanukah included a spirited lower school recitation of hallel followed by a flash mob performed by all students and teachers, a human board game as well as carnival style lunch treats. Although Moriah is sad to see Chanukah come to an end, the warmth and light generated by the ruach and unity of those days will surely remain in the hearts of all students for many years to come.