We’ve turned a corner! Temperatures are on the rise, the crocuses and daffodils are in bloom, the trees are budding, the grass is greening up and the days are growing longer.
We’re coming out of a long, too gloomy winter - and not a moment too soon.
Yes, the pandemic is still with us, though we are fighting back with vaccinations, and better treatments and outcomes for those who do contract the virus.
DISCLAIMER: I received my second dose of the Moderna vaccine just a few hours ago, so I am feeling particularly optimistic at this moment!
In a few days, we will celebrate our freedom from slavery as we gather around our tables for the Pesach sedarim which are such an integral part of this holiday’s ritual. Like last year, many of us will be alone or in very small groups, as safety protocols are still in effect. The seder experience may feel different, but the goal is still the same: to reenact our ancestors’ suffering and their subsequent jubilation at being freed from the tyrannical bonds of a cruel Pharaoh - many cruel Pharaohs if you want to be more accurate.
While our homes may not be filled with the voices and energy of extended family and friends, the age-old traditions don’t change. No child to ask the Four Questions? They’ll still be recited. No guests to engage in discussion? There’s plenty of study material in the text of the Haggadah. Nobody to look for the hidden Afikoman? It will still eaten as the “dessert” of the seder ritual. No one at the table complaining that the seder is too long?
I’ve got the perfect solution for that!
The Melrose B’nai Israel Emanu-El community is hosting two virtual sedarim this coming Saturday and Sunday evenings - and everyone is invited to attend! Rabbi Charles Sherman and I will share the privilege of leading you from our respective homes as we livestream through the MBIEE Facebook page. Here’s the web address: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mbiee.org.
The sedarim will begin at 6:30 pm each evening. The first half of the seder will run 6:30-7:15, we’ll break for dinner 7:15-8:00, then reconvene 8:00-8:30 for the balance of the seder. All of the traditional rituals will be included, along with insights from Rabbi Sherman and lots of singing (what else?!?) with me. You’ll have to provide your own food, however!
Pesach is a time to be together as family and as community. While there may be just a few people at your seder table, you shouldn’t feel alone. Join Rabbi Sherman and me for a lovely experience which will leave you smiling (and if you’re a good cook, with satisfied bellies as well!)
Chag Kasher V’sameach - a happy and kosher holiday - and a Zissen Pesach - a sweet Passover to you all.