FEATURED EVENTS

The Tree of Life Menorah and Hanukkah Objects bring together fine leaves, sturdy branches, a thick tree trunk, and an intricate system of roots—all made possible through flameworked glass shaped over a 4,000°F torch. New additions to the work include a dreidel—a small, spinning top whose name means “to turn around” in Yiddish—which is typically used in a children’s game played during Hanukkah. Traditional potato pancakes called latkes were also added, symbolizing the miracle of the oil associated with Hanukkah. A small bottle of olive oil is the final new addition, representative of the fuel for traditional menorahs. Glass candles with flames were also created and will be added each day of Hanukkah.

For some Christians, the four Sundays and weeks before Christmas are observed as the Advent season—a time of waiting, preparation, and reflection that leads up to the celebration of Christmas and the arrival of the Christ Child. It is a time to illuminate and embellish homes and sanctuaries as a way to brighten and mark the darkest days of winter. The Advent wreath, traditionally made from evergreens, has no beginning or end, signifying the ever-living Christ. One of the wreath’s four candles—each symbolizing hope, peace, joy, or love—is lit each Sunday. With the lighting of each candle, a prayer is offered, providing a moment for reflection. The glass kinara represents a bridge spanning generations of African American people, and a waterfall cascades behind it to symbolize how they flow together. In this setting is a Kikombe cha Umoja (Unity Cup) signifying the gathering of family in celebration of a rich heritage. Behind the scene, a mirror invites the onlooker to see their reflection and contemplate what Umoja means to them.