LAKEWOOD RANCH, Fla (WFLA) — The tragic mass shooting in Australia casts a shadow over Hanukkah celebrations here in the United States. On Monday, a significant local Hanukkah gathering paid homage to the victims by lighting candles in their memory.

Event organizers took extra precautions by ramping up security, ensuring that despite the somber news, the festivities could continue without fear.

The menorah, adorned with branches and flowers, stood as a poignant symbol of resilience and renewal emerging from darkness—an enduring theme in Jewish history, as noted by Rabbi Mendy Bukiet.

“Just days ago, they attempted to extinguish our Hanukkah celebration in Sydney,” Rabbi Bukiet remarked. “Yet, the Jewish community stands strong.”

The weight of the tragedy was palpable among attendees, as the attack claimed 15 lives and left over two dozen injured during a Hanukkah event at Bondi Beach in Australia.

“My cousin is actually in Australia. I was terrified when I heard about that. So coming here, I’m glad we’re secure,” said the Alvo Family, at the event Monday. “They were apprehensive about going. And so they listened to their gut feeling, thank God. And then sure enough, they heard the gunshots from their home.”

They described the anger and pain they feel, from not just this situation but all attacks. This community says celebrating together has kept them alive, and said history proves what their reality is.

“The Jewish people are alive and kicking no matter what,” said the Rabbi. “We are not afraid. We are not going to be cowared by darkness or by evil. We’re just going to keep on growing and keep on spreading you know, light and goodness and kindness to the whole world.”

They lit the candles on the Menorah, sang traditional Jewish songs, and said being together was the light they needed to drive out darkness.

“No matter what happens, We always have hope,” said the Alvo family.

For information on how you can help those impacted by the attack, click here.