Young professionals and graduate students from the Houston, Tex., embarked on a spectacular Chanukah “Jews Cruise” last week that included a menorah lighting on Galveston Bay at sunset, organized by Chabad of Uptown's Young Adults and Professionals.

"It was uplifting to see so many young professionals come together to celebrate and remember the miracle of Chanukah," said Karen Nudelman, an associate attorney at Kennedy Hodges, LLP. "The night was full of new friends, great music, delicious food,” she said, “and an exciting game of dreidel," referring to the spinning-top game traditionally played on the holiday.

"Especially as a Jew who is relatively new to Houston," said Benjamin Hadden, a pre-doctoral graduate student at the University of Houston, it was “an amazing opportunity to spend Chanukah with other Jews, to feel so welcome in the community.”

More than one-hundred attended the three hour event, a part of the center’s weekly classes, Shabbat dinners and other programs that attract young Jewish adults from the Houston area.

“We strive to create a friendly environment for young Jewish singles and couples, where they can meet, socialize in a Jewish environment, and at the same time, take a more active part in their Judaism,” said Rabbi Chaim Lazaroff, who with his wife Chanie is co-director of Chabad of Uptown.

“As always,” said Hadden, “Chabad of Uptown provided a fun, welcoming, and spiritual environment in which to explore Judaism.”

Rabbi Chaim Lazaroff talks about Chanukah (Photo: Gary Maltz)
Rabbi Chaim Lazaroff talks about Chanukah (Photo: Gary Maltz)