Welcome everyone and thank you for joining me and my family tonight as we celebrate the first night of Passover. I wanted to host this Zoom Seder tonight because, well, obviously, tonight is different. 

Passover is a highly experiential holiday, a time when we typically come together with family, friends, and the rest of our community in celebration of our Judaism – remembering our past and anticipating our future. For some families, this is the one time of year when they join together in person to share traditions, tell stories, and create lasting memories. For me personally, Passover has always been one of my favorite holidays because it is steeped in tradition, is lively, has songs to sing, and, most importantly, tells a story of resiliance that, although took place many many years ago, could always find its place in the modern era. 

This year, the COVID-19 pandemic has put all of us, the world over, in an unprecedented position: Although we cannot share physical spaces, modern technology allows us to gather virtually, so that we may still create the experiences that achieve so many of the intentions of the holiday. Tonight, I wanted to share Passover with anyone, whether Jewish or not, that needs a moment of togetherness in these crazy times. My hope for this seder is that you all can join in, ask questions, and that, together, we can share in the spirit of Passover. Please feel free to add thoughts, questions, comments etc. in the chat section or unmute your mic and let your voice be heard! I have put together my own Haggadah, the guide to the Seder, that I hope captures the spirit of the evening. Rebecca Schoffer, 92Y Director of Jewish Family Engagement, noted, "The very essence of Passover revolves around people’s ability to adapt and look ahead to better times." I wanted to have this moment in time today where, although we are all physically distant, we could come together in spirit, resilience, memory, and hope.

"This year, let us all remain safe and healthy. L'shana haba'ah, next year, may we all be able to gather around our tables together in peace. B'virkat Shalom - With Blessings of Peace." - Rabbi Marcia Zimmerman, Temple Israel in Minneapolis


haggadah Section: Introduction