The Charlotte Jewish News- February 2026- Page 18
Purim: Choosing Light, Choosing Life, Choosing Community
By Rabbi Yossi Groner Purim is a holiday of miraculous survival and perseverance. It reminds us that even in moments of uncertainty and fear, the Jewish response has always been to live with faith in G-d and to stand together as one people supporting each other through challenging times.
This year, Purim carries a deeper meaning. On the first night of Chanukah, a violent terrorist attack at a Jewish gathering in Bondi Beach, Australia, turned a moment of celebration into one of heartbreak. It was a painful reminder that antisemitism remains real and that Jewish visibility can still be challenged. And yet, the response from Jewish communities worldwide was clear. We did not retreat or hide. We gathered more boldly, celebrated more openly, and stood together as a united people with strength and pride. That spirit is at the heart of the Purim miracle. The Purim story
teaches us that there are moments when the Jewish people must step forward rather than step back. Queen Esther’ s courage was rooted in identity, faith, and responsibility to her people. Her message feels especially relevant today. This Purim, we are guided by a powerful truth: One G-d, One People, One Torah. Though we may be spread across the world, we are united by shared faith, history, and responsibility for one another. We celebrate Purim not in denial of darkness, but in defiance of it. We choose joy as an act of strength and community as an act of resilience. In Charlotte, our Purim celebrations are about more than costumes and hamantaschen. They are about ensuring that every Jew has a place to belong, to celebrate openly, and to feel proud of their identity. We will have a grand Purim event on Tuesday, March 3, which will include a Purim dinner celebration, Megillah reading and fun activities for the entire family. Our theme this year will be Purim Australia, featuring Jewish and general life Down Under with costumes, food, Australian scenery and landmarks.
As we look ahead to Purim and the holidays still to come, our commitment remains clear: Jewish life in our community will continue to shine brightly. We celebrate because we are here. We stand together because we belong. We move forward because we are united by One G-d, One People, One Torah. Chag Purim Sameach.
Chabad of Charlotte exist to ensure the Jewish future of our community. Through authentic and loving educational and outreach programs, Chabad aims to touch and inspire every Jew in the Charlotte Metro Region. For more information or to reserve you spot for our Purim celebration, please visit www. chabadnc. org.
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