Passover Seder via Zoom – Saturday, March 27, 2021
Passover is among the most celebrated of Jewish holidays and a time for the residents of JSDD to gather on Zoom from their respective homes with invited guests and engage in the ritual of retelling of the exodus from Egypt. The virtual Seder for the second year was officiated by Hagit Oren, Judaic Coordinator.
Even with the rituals from afar, most have a favorite part of the seder they cherish. One of those is starting the Seder by recited and singing the blessing Shehecheyanu. This is said when you celebrate a special occasion, such as the first night of the Passover Seder. Together Hagit lead the participants in reciting the prayers to light the candles and the Kiddush.
The Seder continued with the reading of the Haggadah – a Jewish text that sets forth the order of the Passover Seder. Ralph had the honor this year to lead the group by reading Ma Nishtana – “Why is tonight different from all other nights?” Mark read about the four children at the first Passover Seder; one was wise, one was wicked, one was simple, and one did not know how to ask a question.
Another, much anticipated ritual, is when the participants make a Hillel sandwich with two pieces of matza, egg, and haroset – a sweet Passover paste whose texture is meant as a reminder of the mortar the enslaved Jews used to build in ancient Egypt. The significance of the ingredients symbolized the story of ancient slavery. One of the participants reminded everyone that today we are not slaves in Egypt, and we are blessed to be living in a country such as America.
Hagit articulated the privilege of sitting around a Seder table with family and friends. Passover music inspired the group to clap their hands in unison. At the conclusion of singing the festive meal was served and enjoyed.
Chag Passover Sameach!
