Jewish communities on Long Island gathered to celebrate the second night of Hanukkah, even as the holiday was overshadowed by grief following a deadly terror attack in Sydney, Australia. For some in attendance, the loss was deeply personal.

At a menorah lighting in Islip, community members came together to honor their faith while mourning those killed in the attack, including a rabbi with close ties to Long Island.

One of the victims was Rabbi Eli Schlanger, a longtime friend of Rabbi Motti Grossbaum, who leads Village Chabad in Stony Brook.

“My friend, my good friend Rabbi Eli was among those shot in cold blood just for being Jewish, just for celebrating Hanukkah,” Rabbi Grossbaum said. “We spoke just a week ago, sharing good times and memories.”

Despite the pain, Rabbi Grossbaum said the community’s response is rooted in resilience and faith.

“The response to darkness is not hiding,” he said. “It’s coming out tall and proud, with our Jewish pride stronger than ever.”

The celebration in Islip continued with a visible law enforcement presence, reflecting heightened security concerns while allowing the community to gather safely.