How is this night different?
How is this Passover going to be different than all other Passovers?
Well, last year we were in a global pandemic and this year we are in a global pandemic. This year we have added hope in the form of a vaccine. We have added hope in watching all the medical professionals and researchers dedicate themselves to healing. We have added hope seeing all the ways our community and so many others have worked and donated and advocated to help those most hurt by the pandemic.
Last year we were isolated at home. This year, we are still isolated but we know we can connect in virtual ways and find deep meaning in them. This year, we know that streaming isn’t perfect but also has benefits.
Last year, we didn’t know what the future would bring and how bad the pandemic would be. This year, we still have questions of how this will end. Yet this year we know that being Jewish and serving God cannot be stopped by a virus. We know that we can survive and even thrive amid great disruption and illness.
Last year, we had a communal virtual Seder. This year, I am officially inviting you to our second streaming Seder! But it will be a little different – because it will have an Ethiopian twist. Alongside the traditional Haggadah, we will see some videos of Ethiopian practices for some of the steps and learn about their Exodus story.
We are ready for some liberation. I invite you to join me, Tyler Dean, Elaine Moise and so many others to celebrate the Seder together. We will sing and learn and offer up our own hope for a speedy liberation from the pandemic. Starting at 6pm on March 28th, we will join for Seder. At around 7pm, I will invite those who want to linger and enjoy a Seder meal together. In addition, there are separate links to YouTube videos of Rabbi Graff’s family singing Hallel and the Grace After Meals.
Click here to register. (please note: this is a free event. We are using a new website so you will have to “buy” a ticket. There is no charge. The ticket is free but the website seems to require it.)
I also encourage people to think of others who could use a Seder. Invite someone to join you for Seder via video conference, even if you’ve never had your own Seder before. This is a chance to connect with others and connect with Jewish tradition in ways we never imagined.
Both Rabbi Graff and I wish you a joyous Seder, whether it’s with family or on your own, whether via video or in person, knowing that we will pray for redemption and healing for us and for the whole world this year.
Next year in person!!
Shabbat Shalom,
Rabbi David Booth
