It’s a first for our shul: a Zoom Seder. Following the success of our first Zoom Shabbat (see page 5), we’re looking forward to our first Zoom Seders. As you already know, owing to the continuing spread of the Coronavirus, shul president Susan Rosenstreich and her board of directors made a wise decision to cancel the ecumenical Seder for GEM (Greenport Ecumenical Ministry) members and parishioners, as well as the two Passover Seders that had been planned at our shul. But to help us continue the tradition of our families and friends joining together to welcome the Passover holiday, you are invited to Zoom in for one or both Seders on Wednesday and Thursday, April 8 and 9, beginning at 6:30 p.m. Rabbi Gadi Capela will lead the ceremonial portion of the Seders. The Haggadah to be used by the rabbi will be emailed to all participants in advance of the Seders.

To fully enjoy the experience, it is recommended you have a cup of wine and your own Seder plate at hand with your Zoom-ready electronic device (computer, phone or tablet). For instructions on readying your device, you can contact Andrea Blaga at the shul.

 

The significance of the Passover Seder

This year, Passover begins just two days before the Christian holiday of Good Friday, which falls on April 10. This concurrence adds significance for some observers of both faiths; the night before Jesus was crucified by the Romans, his last meal was a Seder.

The ceremonial portion of the Passover observance retells the story of the Exodus in which the ancient Israelites were freed from slavery in Egypt. Jews throughout the world have celebrated Passover for more than 3,000 years, and yet the story of religious freedom is as meaningful today as it was during the time of the Pharaohs.

Reading the Haggadah, whether via Zoom or in the quiet of one’s home, can be spiritually uplifting. The Haggadah tells the story, explains the symbols, addresses the issue of slavery, reflects on the beauty of freedom, and expresses gratitude to God for life’s many blessings. Among the symbolic foods called for in the Haggadah are haroset to symbolize the mortar the Jewish slaves made for bricks in Egypt; matza to remind us of the hastily prepared, unrisen bread made by the Jews as they fled Egypt across the desert; a roasted lamb bone that represents the sacrifice that spared the Jewish children from God’s plague; and saltwater and horseradish which represent tears shed by enslaved people and the bitterness of captivity. But with parsley and eggs, we celebrate rebirth and hope for the future.

Please let the shul know your plans. Email Andrea at ctigreenport@gmail.com with your email address, and number of those who will be Zooming in for the first and second Seders. Your donation of from $5 to $25 will be appreciated. May we be together at a Passover Seder this year and next — at our shul or by Zooming in.