Hanukkah in Kabul

Editors Note: The following story was submitted by U.S. Army Lt. Col. Susan H. Meisner, from the Office of Military Cooperation – Afghanistan.

KABUL, Afghanistan Jewish personnel-Soldiers, sailors, Marines, airman and civilians-gathered with their friends and co-workers to celebrate Hanukkah on tiny Kabul Compound, Afghanistan.

While they didn’t have a minyan, they had plenty of spirit, as they took turns reciting the prayers, lighting the candles and singing Hanukkah songs.

On Friday night, civilians from local non-governmental organizations joined in the festivities, a short Sabbath service and the customary Oneg Shabbat.

Of course, celebrating Hanukkah in Afghanistan is significant-it’s an achievement in and of itself. Military personnel and NGOs alike are here to rebuild a war-torn country best known for its suffering under the strict brand of Islam practiced by the Taliban regime.

 Jeff Rosenberg, a Brockton, Mass., native and regional manager for Danish company Kjaer and Kjaer, appreciated the opportunity to join the military’s celebration. “What a wonderful way to demonstrate the sincere commitment of the U.S. military to religious diversity and freedom,” he said.

Army Education Counselor Sheila Dickerman appreciated that “Jews were able to get together in Afghanistan and light the Hanukkah menorahs that symbolize freedom in this oppressed country.”

On the fifth and sixth nights, a rabbi led the festivities. Navy Chaplain (Cmdr.) Mitch Schranz volunteered to serve in Afghanistan during Hanukkah. Stationed in Naples, Italy, Schranz is a long-term friend of the Combined Forces Command – Afghanistan Chaplain Navy Capt. Tierian Cash.

“I knew there was no rabbi serving in Afghanistan,” said Schranz, “and I wanted to provide that important service during Hanukkah.” During his week in country, Schranz traveled to Kandahar, Bagram and Salerno, in addition to Kabul.

Jewish personnel were appreciative of his services, and of the opportunity to gather to celebrate the season. Said Dickerman, “It was definitely a bonding experience. We found that even though we are not home, we can still participate in the same things we enjoy at home.”