Seder Suppers Increase Awareness Of Jewish Roots

Parishes in the Diocese of Evansville have long used the traditional Passover Seder to teach the history of the Jewish religion and discover connections to the roots of Catholicism.

All Saints Parish in Evansville has been holding a Seder Supper as an annual event for more than 26 years. This year’s meal, held on April 10, provided the opportunity to feast on good food and experience this important celebration. Prior to the event, Gertrude Howard and her team worked to prepare matza (unleavened bread), which is a staple of the Seder meal.

Seder customs include telling the story of the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in ancient Egypt, discussing the story, drinking four cups of wine, eating matza, partaking of symbolic foods placed on the Passover Seder Plate and reclining in celebration of freedom.

The Holy Redeemer Youth group held their own Seder Supper, exploring the tradition further by using the book “Let Us Break Bread Together” by Michael Smith and Rabbi Rami Shapiro to enhance the experience.  Youth Minister Brandi Crow stated that the meal, followed by toasts conducted with sparkling cider and songs, increased the participant’s awareness of the Jewish roots present in our traditions. This awareness leads to understanding how we are all connected in modern times as well.

“This year as we experienced the Seder, we couldn’t ignore our need to pray for our fellow Christians in Egypt who are grieving because of the attacks on their Churches,” Crow said.

The Passover Seder is the most commonly celebrated of Jewish rituals. The feast marks the beginning of the Jewish holiday of Passover, which began April 10 and ended April 18.