In Clearwater, Florida, the Jewish community gathered on Sunday evening to mark the beginning of Hanukkah, even as they faced the shadow of a tragic attack on Jews abroad. The event took place at Coachman Park and was hosted by the Chabad of Clearwater.

Organizers brought together not only members of the Jewish community but also the wider Clearwater public, creating a space filled with prayers, music, and traditional foods to celebrate the holiday.

Rabbi Levi Hodakov, the Director of Chabad of Clearwater, addressed those present, focusing on themes of resilience and faith in his speech.

“A Jew does not respond to darkness by retreating,” Rabbi Hodakov told the audience. “A Jew responds by bringing more light.”

While participants enjoyed the festive atmosphere, they also took time to reflect on the day’s violent events that unfolded in Sydney, Australia, weighing heavily on their hearts.

Earlier Sunday, a father and son opened fire during a Hanukkah celebration in Sydney, Australia. Authorities say at least 15 people were killed and 42 others were hospitalized following the attack at Bondi Beach.

Officials say one of the gunmen was killed and the other was hospitalized. Authorities say the attack was designed to target the Jewish community.

“We mourn the Jewish families that lost their lives and we all pray for them and their families as they go through the coming days,” one speaker said during the event.

Clearwater Mayor Bruce Rector also spoke, highlighting the strong law enforcement presence during the gathering.

“That’s because we want our Jewish community to feel safe everywhere you go, throughout the entire community, every day of the year, but particularly this gathering, the first night of Hanukkah, so special for the Jewish people, so special for the community of Clearwater,” Rector said.

Rabbi Hodakov shared a message of prayer and support for the victims and their families.

“We are praying for them. The souls should receive an elevation on high and their families should know for no more sorrow. We are with you. Whatever we could do. You can send us an email here to Clearwater. We’d be more than happy to do what we can for you. We love you, and we send our love from Clearwater Beach to Bondi Beach,” Hodakov said.