In remarks delivered the same day as Jewish community leaders and politicians attended a Chanukah party hosted by Chabad-Lubavitch of Harrisburg at the Pennsylvania State Capitol, Gov. Edward G. Rendell called on all nations to work together to “to bring peace throughout the world.”

“As we light the menorah,” said Rendell, “let it shine a bright light against the darkness of those who seek to thwart democracy and the many freedoms that we enjoy today.”

During the menorah lighting ceremony at the East Wing Plaza, attendees enjoyed live music, dancing and clown performances while munching on traditional latkes.

Said Rabbi Shmuel Pewzner at the Sunday evening event, which was dedicated to the memory of the victims of last months terror attacks in Mumbai, India: “Today, as the free world seeks to vigorously protect the right of every person to practice their religion without persecution, we light menorahs in public to proclaim the universal message of religious freedom.”

Also known as the Festival of Lights, Chanukah began Sunday night. For more information about the eight-day holiday, click here.