Gramercy Park Trustee Reverend Tom Pike was asked by the Synagogue to speak to a group of teens from "My Faith/Your Faith" about the relationship between the lighted Gramercy Park Christmas tree and the lighted Menorah.  "My Faith/Your Faith" brings together teens from different faith communities for a year-long program of  dialogue, education and service.  Speaking in front of the Christmas tree, Rev. Pike explained that "Most faith communities have a service that emphasizes light, so it is good to be with two lighted symbols at the same time, the Chanukah Menorah and the Christmas tree."

 

"It was heartwarming to see so many people take part in the ceremony," said Park Trustee Arlene Harrison, who is also President of the Gramercy Park Block Association.  "The Trustees are pleased with the warm relationship that has existed for so many years between us, the Brotherhood Synagogue, Rabbi Alder and Phil Rothman, the synagogue's Executive Director," she added.

 

The crowd was invited back to The Brotherhood Synagogue for refreshments, which included the traditional Chanukah foods of potato latkes and jelly donuts.

Following the ceremony, Brotherhood Synagogue's Rabbi Daniel Alder and Executive Director Phil Rothman welcome Park Trustee Rev. Tom Pike, Park Trustee GPBA President Arlene Harrison, and interfaith group "My Faith/Your Faith" back to the Synagogue for refreshments.

Rabbi Daniel Alder leads the singing and blessings at the Chanukah Menorah Lighting in Gramercy Park.