Shabbat-candle ban drives Jews from Welsh resort

Hasidim looking to vacation on the Welsh seaside are scrambling to find alternate arrangements after Aberystwyth University banned the use of candles in its residences.

Hundreds of Orthodox Jews have vacationed in the facility for more than two decades, according to the Telegraph. Hasidim have traditionally taken up summer residence in Petre Jane Morgan, a university housing complex across a footbridge from the main campus.

But this year, the university has forbidden the lighting of naked flames, thereby preventing Hasidim from lighting their Shabbat candles, a crucial ritual preparation for the Sabbath.

“Lighting candles on a Friday evening is part of our religion, and being asked not to light them is like asking us not to breathe,” said a spokesman for the organizers of the visiting group.

The university claims that multiple incidents with lit candles, and a consultation with local fire authorities, spurred the ban. Despite efforts to mediate between the university and visiting Orthodox Jews, Hasidim have elected to take their holidays elsewhere this year.