Rogers Park’s Orthodox Jewish community welcomed neighbors of all faiths to a Chanukah celebration in memory of Eliyahu Moscowitz, the young man who was recently murdered in the park. Lubavitch Chabad’s annual ‘car top’ Chanukah Parade ended at Loyola Park this year, and the event that followed contemplated the loss of both Moscowitz and Douglas Watts, the other man killed in the recent violence.
Rabbi Yoel Wolf of Chabad of East Rogers Park noted before the event: “The nature of light is that it is always victorious over darkness. A small amount of light dispels a lot of darkness. Another act of goodness and kindness, another act of light, can make all the difference.” The event paused for the lighting of a large menorah, after which singing, dancing, and latkes and hot cocoa were served. The menorah will remain in the park for a short time as a memorial to the victims.