On 18 December, the Embassy of the Order of Malta to Romania attended a gala celebration for the forthcoming Hanukkah festival at the National Opera in Bucharest, organised by Tova Ben Nun-Cherbis, President and Founder of Laude-Reut Educational Complex.
The occasion was attended by more than 900 guests, including a variety of representatives of Romanian authorities, diplomats, intellectuals, civil society, artists, and students. Following the opening by Mrs Nun-Cherbis, there was a speech from Israeli Ambassador to Romania, HE Lior Azarben Dor, who was followed by Senator Titus Corlăţean; the Mayor of Bucharest Nicușor Dan; as well as Vered Libstein, wife of Ofir Libstein who was a prominent member of the Israeli community killed during the 7th October 2023 attack; among other prominent guests.
Following the addresses, there were musical performances by Daniella Lugassy, soprano from the National Opera of Israel, who was accompanied by tenor Daniel Magdal and the Bucharest National Opera Orchestra, as conducted by Daniel Jinga. Where the children’s choir of the Laude-Reut Educational Complex also impressed the audience with their songs and talent.
The Hanukkah candles were lit, symbolising hope, optimism, and freedom recalls the Maccabean revolt in the second century. While the dates of Hanukkah change every year, it always falls in November or December and lasts for eight days, where in 2024 the festival starts on the evening of Wednesday 25 December going through to Thursday 2 January 2025.
After the event, Ambassador of the Order to Romania, HE Roberto Musneci stated, “The event was masterfully organised, and I echo the references to the continued importance of interfaith dialogue, the need to remain optimistic in the face of challenges, and for the hope of an end to the wars in the Middle East.” Ambassador Musneci added, “My sincere thanks to Tova, whose leadership in education and cultural diplomacy is well-known. It was a memorable event that emphasised solidarity, education, and tolerance as pillars of a common future.”
