Young Jewish adults celebrate Hanukkah as point of pride
Published: Sunday, December 18, 2011, 9:45 PM Updated: Monday, December 19, 2011, 6:05 AM
By Nancy Haught, The Oregonian The Oregonian
For four young Jews sharing a house in Southeast Portland, Hanukkah isn't about a lamp burning for eight days long ago. It's not the Jewish alternative to Christmas. It's not even about traditional foods – potato latkes and doughnuts fried in hot oil.
"Well, it is a little about the food," says Emly Oren, 26. "It's so delicious." Her roommates nod their heads in agreement.
"But it's also about pride," she continues. "When we light a menorah and put it in the window, we're not hiding our faith. We're reminding others – and ourselves – that, miraculously, we still do exist."
For the residents of Portland's Moishe House, Hanukkah -- which begins at sunset Tuesday -- is more even than a celebration of their religious heritage. It's another reason to open their doors to Jews in their 20s and 30s who aren't affiliated with a synagogue, are curious about Judaism or want to practice their faith with their peers.
http://www.oregonlive.com/living/index.ssf/2011/12/young_jewish_adults_celebrate.html
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