In an ecumenical gesture, Rev. Andrew C. Fischer of St. Ferdinand Roman Catholic Church lights a large menorah last year to celebrate the last night of Hannukah in Cranberry Township. This year's event will start at 4 p.m. Dec. 9, with the lighting taking place at 5:30.

CRANBERRY TWP — For the past five years, people of all faiths have come together to celebrate the final day of Hanukkah with a menorah lighting at the township’s Municipal Center.

This year, that gathering takes on a deeper meaning, as it falls a little more than a month after a gunman killed 11 people at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh’s Squirrel Hill neighborhood.

In the wake of the shooting, vigils and gatherings of those from different faiths have been held around the region, including one in Butler that drew hundreds of people. Jack Cohen, founder of the Cranberry Jewish Community, said those events show the strength and togetherness of those living in the area.

“It’s about community,” he said. “If it was a different religion, I’d be there in five minutes. ... It’s your neighbors, if you’re talking about ways to have a great community, these are the kinds of things you partake in.”

In that vein, all are invited to the Dec. 9 event, which marks the sixth year of celebrations held on the final day of Hanukkah. In addition to the menorah lighting, traditional foods will be offered, and games, music and other live entertainment will take place. The event starts at 4 p.m., with the lighting taking place at 5:30. The event is privately underwritten.

According to township Manager Jerry Andree, religious leaders and residents from around the county and region have participated in the past, and he expects this year to be no different.

“It is a wonderful experience with folks from all walks of life participating,” he said. “This year we expect the same level of involvement, if not greater. ... It is a wonderful way to demonstrate we are a caring, loving community.”

In past years, officials from St. Ferdinand Roman Catholic Church in the township have led the ceremony, lighting the candles. Cohen said this is indicative of the support the event has seen in the past, with officials from various religions offering support and attending to share a moment together.

“It’s important for folks who are Jewish, but it’s also important for those who aren’t,” he said. “It doesn’t matter where you’re from, we want you to come and celebrate.”