Against the backdrop of a cool December evening, nearly 120 people, 85 of whom were English- and Russian-speaking secular Jews, gathered at Plummer Park in West Hollywood to celebrate the Festival of Lights. The event, organized to strengthen ties between the Seventh-day Adventist Church and Los Angeles’ Russian-speaking Jewish community, emphasized religious freedom and cultural heritage, and was enriched by musical performances.
Opening remarks for the evening, primarily delivered in Russian, centered on the importance of religious freedom in America and its parallels to the Hanukkah story. Speakers expressed gratitude for the opportunity to openly honor their faith, drawing connections between the Maccabean revolt and broader struggles for religious liberty throughout history.
The program included a diverse musical lineup, with performances in both English and Russian. Songs ranged from traditional Hanukkah tunes in Russian to well-known secular holiday classics such as Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree, We Wish You a Merry Christmas, and Feliz Navidad. A highlight of the evening was a heartfelt rendition of Josh Groban’s You Raise Me Up in English by a five-year-old girl, which drew the most enthusiastic applause of the night.
David Gardner, Director of Jewish Ministries for the Pacific Union Conference, attended the event and shared his experience sitting next to a committee member from the public park hosting the celebration. “She just kept telling me how pleased they were with the event, how rewarding it was to see the event taking place and the growth of our group,” he said. “She was very positive and very nurturing with our ideas and objectives.”
Speakers explored the significance of Hanukkah, discussing its history, who celebrates it, and its spiritual themes. They drew parallels between Hanukkah and Biblical stories from Daniel 2 and 3, emphasizing the triumph of faith over idolatry. Hanukkah was framed as a victory of ideology and faith rather than military might, celebrating the validation of Torah and the honor of the true God.
The musical celebration continued with an eclectic range of performances: the classic Dreidel Song on guitar, God Bless America in both Yiddish and English, and a saxophone rendition of Silent Night. A Jewish woman of Indian heritage performed an aloha dance, and a violinist closed with the Hava Nagila.
Attendees then mingled over latkes and other refreshments, sharing stories and building relationships that reinforced the sense of community among Los Angeles’ Russian-speaking Jews. As the evening unfolded, deep conversations were sparked.
Adventist attendee Nick L. shared his experience, recalling one interaction: “Two Russian Jewish women approached me and asked if I would mind answering a few questions. They asked, ‘Should we study only the Torah, or the entire Scriptures?’ I replied, ‘The entire Scriptures.’”
Then the topic of the Messiah came up. Nick reflected, “The second question was about the Messiah: ‘Do you believe in the Messiah?’ I answered, ‘I not only believe, but I have experienced the reality of the Messiah in my life.'”
The connections made throughout the evening were not only intellectual but personal as well. “An elderly Jewish man approached with more questions,” Nick continued. “When I asked if he had family here, he shared, ‘I don’t have anyone here, and I often feel lonely.'”
One final conversation left a lasting impact. “The last encounter was with a secular Russian Jewish woman who trusted me enough to admit that she’s struggling to adapt to American culture and language,” Nick said. “These are all people searching for answers, community, and support. We pray that the members of the Russian Adventist church will feel the need to help.”
“The Hanukkah program was simply delightful,” said Sonna Smith, an Adventist attendee from San Diego. “The talented musicians, along with the small children who participated, created a truly memorable experience. The audience seemed to appreciate the beautiful music, and the Hanukkah treats of latkes and cookies were enjoyed by all. With a full venue and standing room only, it was evident that the event succeeded in introducing the Jewish community to the Russian Seventh-day Adventist Church in Glendale.”
Pastor Anatoly Gurduiala, who pastors at the Russian-American Seventh-day Adventist Church in Glendale, California, also reflected on the importance of such gatherings. He commented, “As with Jesus’ ministry, Jewish ministry today must begin with small beginnings, then grows as our Jewish friends develop trust in us and bear much fruit for the Kingdom.”
As the last echoes of music faded and the menorah’s final flames flickered into embers, one thing was clear: this Hanukkah celebration was not just about remembering a story from the past. It was about kindling new light in the present. For many, it was the beginning of a deeper journey, one that would continue long after the night had ended.
