JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — In the wake of a terrorist assault during a Jewish celebration in Sydney, Australia, the Jacksonville community is determined to honor Chanukah with resilience and unity.

“I began searching online, trying to understand the situation, fearing the worst. Sadly, the reality surpassed my fears,” expressed Rabbi Schmuli Novack.

Rabbi Novack, along with the broader Jewish community in Jacksonville, is processing the devastating attack that occurred far away, taking at least 15 lives at a Hanukkah gathering on Bondi Beach.

“We are grappling with profound grief, sorrow, and loss. Yet, we are also called to bring light and joy as we celebrate the festive holiday of Hanukkah.”

People on the First Coast are preparing for Tuesday’s 10th annual public menorah lighting at the St. Johns Town Center, which will be dedicated to the memory of the victims killed.

“I think the message for us is clear, while we try to wrap our brains and perhaps cannot wrap our brains around what’s happening … we still have to do whatever we can to spread the light. Light pushes away darkness — even just a little bit of light,” Novack said.

Rabbi Novack told First Coast News he expects a large crowd, with city leaders expected to be in attendance.

With the attack fresh in people’s minds, some may be wary about attending public lighting events. Rabbi Novack says Jewish people can’t let hate and fear rule them.

“We cannot cower in response to these activities. We have to increase with our visibility, with our Jewish pride, and Jewish activity,” Novack said.

The menorah lighting event will begin at 6 p.m. at the Town Center park green by Maggiano’s.