“The cold days and long nights wake our desire for light and festivity,” the letter said.

“The light of candles, increasing day by day, not only strengthens the feeling of belonging to family and community but proves the sustaining power of tradition and religion.”

The letter was sent to the heads of the Orthodox Jewish Community, the Unified Hungarian Jewish Congregation, Jewish federation Mazsihisz and Jewish cultural foundation Mazsok.

“As the prime minister of Hungary, I greet you all respectfully on the festivity of light and wish all members of the Hungarian Jewish community a blessed, peaceful Hanukkah”, the letter said.

Republished with permission of Hungary Matters, MTI’s daily newsletter.