Update: excerpt from this year’s message:

Michelle and I send our warmest wishes to all those celebrating Hanukkah around the world.

This Hanukkah season we remember the powerful story of the Maccabees who rose up to liberate their people from oppression. Upon discovering the desecration of their Temple, the believers found only enough oil to light the lamp for one night. And yet it lasted for eight.

Hanukkah is a time to celebrate the faith and customs of the Jewish people, but it is also an opportunity for people of all faiths to recognize the common aspirations we share. This holiday season, let us give thanks for the blessings we enjoy, and remain mindful of those who are suffering. And let us reaffirm our commitment to building a better, more complete world for all.

From our family to the Jewish Community around the world, Chag Sameach.

Photos above: Huff Post (click photos for more). Below: the White House’s  Hanukkah greeting.

Via the NY Times:

…The English version of the greeting sends “warmest wishes to all who are celebrating Hanukkah around the world,’’ from Mr. Obama and his wife, Michelle. It recalls the ancient story of the Maccabees, the Jewish rebels who triumphed in battle and rededicated the temple in Jerusalem – a reminder, the message says, that “that faith and perseverance are powerful forces that can sustain us in difficult times and help us overcome even the greatest odds.’’…for the rest, go to the Times.

Bonus: a ca-lassic invite (from last night) via my buddy Fenberg of New Era:

Oy Gavalt! Can you believe it’s already Hanukkah?!?!

Find your inner Maccabee and come celebrate the 1st night of Hanukkah with a few of your closest Jewish and Gentile friends!

Steve will be making Baba’s famous Kugel and Latkes and Carrie will be in charge of the Matzo Ball Soup. You’re welcome to bring or make something, but don’t get the shpilkes if you can’t bring anything!

My kibbutz is your kibbutz, so put the fercockt of a week behind you, get your tuchas over here and come celebrate! Shabbat Shalom!