HANCOCK, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – As Christians wound down their holy holiday on Wednesday, the Jewish population started their eight-day celebration of Hanukkah at the same time.
Christians celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ on Christmas, a Jewish man they believe is the Messiah for all people. Jewish people celebrate Hannukah, also known as “The Festival of Lights.” It represents the rededication of Jerusalem’s temple after the Maccabees defeated an invading army. The oil in the menorahs lasted eight nights despite only having enough oil for one.
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About 70% of Michigan’s population identifies as Christian. Michigan’s Jewish community marks 0.9% of the population, or roughly 87,905 people, according to 2024 data.
Most of Michigan’s Jewish population resides in the greater Detroit area, but a smaller enclave can be found in the Upper Peninsula community of Hancock. The mid-19th century saw an influx of people during the copper boom, including Jewish immigrants. That heritage still holds true with Temple Jacob, a synagogue that serves the counties of Keweenaw, Houghton, Baraga, and Ontonagon.
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