As Jewish families across the world prepare to celebrate Chanukah this year, Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte is promoting a new World Zionist Organization booklet, 8 Nights 8 Heroes, designed to infuse the Festival of Lights with remembrance, purpose, and inspiring stories of “modern day Maccabees.” Each night of Chanukah highlights and honors a different fallen Israeli soldier, offering a glimpse into their personality and contributions, and invites families to participate in activities that reflect their legacy.

This initiative is deeply resonant for many Jewish communities, including our own here in greater Charlotte. Among the soldiers featured is Rose Lubin, the niece of local community member Elise Kosofsky.

Rose was raised in Atlanta, Georgia, where she was an active participant in her Jewish community. She was a vibrant, multifaceted individual—a champion wrestler, varsity cheerleader, vegan, poet, artist, singer, and dancer, and more. The oldest of 14 cousins, she was known for her warmth, creativity, and the strong sense of responsibility that she felt towards helping others. Elise remembers how Rose would say from a young age that her dream was to live in Israel. “When she set her mind to do something, it was just going to happen,” Elise remarks. In 2021, Rose made Aliyah at the age of 18, fulfilling that dream. “She was committed to what she believed in.” says Elise.

Rose joined the Israeli Defense Force and served as part of a border police unit tasked with defending Jerusalem. Her commitment to safeguarding others was unwavering as she watched over Israeli Jews as they came to daven. On November 6, 2023, just under a month after courageously defending Kibbutz Sa’ad from Hamas terrorists during the October 7 attacks, Rose lost her life defending the Damascus Gate in Jerusalem from a Hamas assailant.

The World Zionist Organization’s booklet honors Rose on the third night of Chanukah, which also happens to be her birthday. Her page focuses on the value of responsibility, a quality her family identified as central to her character. A quote from Rose featured in the booklet underscores her belief in active contribution: “I will do something great for the world, I won’t wait for the world to do something great for me.”

For the Kosofsky family, Rose’s sacrifice serves as a profound source of inspiration. “We’re living better lives because we’re trying to be a little more like her,” Elise reflects. Elise and her family have become passionate advocates for Israel and the Jewish people, sharing Rose’s story with others. Speaking about Rose and the other Israeli soldiers featured in the booklet, Elise describes them as “modern day Maccabees,” adding, “We are in a time right now where we get to witness heroism firsthand.”

The inclusion of Rose in this Chanukah booklet highlights the global reach of the ongoing Swords of Iron war, uniting Jewish communities in pride, grief, and resilience. Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte shares in this commitment to honoring those who embody the enduring values of courage and responsibility by actively supporting initiatives that strengthen the connection between our local Jewish community and Israel, especially in challenging times. Roses story serves as a reminder of the enduring values of courage, responsibility, and faith, which illuminate our celebrations even in the darkest times.

This Chanukah, as we light the menorah and celebrate miracles, may we also remember the lives of those like Rose who have fought to preserve the Jewish dream. May their light continue to guide us.

View the Booklet here.