JACKSON, Miss. (AP) — Gov. Phil Bryant has hosted a menorah lighting ceremony at the Mississippi Governor's Mansion.
More than 30 guests watched Thursday as Bryant, who's a Methodist, repeated a Hanukkah blessing led by Rabbi Stephen Wylen of Jackson's Beth Israel Congregation.
The ceremony took place on the front steps of the white-columned antebellum mansion in downtown Jackson, several feet away from a Nativity scene on the lawn. The mansion is decorated with more than 20 Christmas trees.
Hanukkah began Sunday and ends Dec. 14. Dr. Howard Katz, the Beth Israel congregation president, says this is the first time he remembers a menorah lighting at the Mississippi Governor's Mansion.
Bryant led an economic development trip to Israel last month, after winning a second term. He also traveled there in 2014.
Copyright Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
More like this story
Support our reporting -- Follow the MFP.
