The Seder Feast

The Seder is the most widely celebrated Jewish holiday, even among those who are not deeply religious. More than 80% of Jewish families have attended a Passover Seder, which includes a feast and prayers in the home, as opposed to a synagogue where much of their worship takes place.

While the Christians commemorate the resurrection of Jesus, the Jews use this time of year to memorialize the Israelite Exodus out of Egypt, which is when their ancient ancestors were freed from slavery. It is also a time to give thanks because God spared them from the plagues that washed over Egypt, killing all the firstborn sons in one bloody night.

To maintain the universal structure and traditional nature of the Seder celebration, a Haggadah is purchased, which contains the text and rituals associated with the Passover feast.

Each family has their own paperback copy, but "The Family Haggadah" (Artscroll/Mesorah) and "Passover Haggadah" (Nathan Goldberg) are considered to be two of the better versions for Orthodox Jews. The Haggadah guides the celebration, instructing families what prayers and blessings to read, when to wash their hands, when to sing, what questions to ask and reiterating why this holiest of days is commemorated.

The Seder is traditionally associated with the Jewish faith, although it is not exclusive to their religion. Christians also hold Seders during Holy Week to celebrate Jesus, who was a Hebrew, and connect with ancient Messianic faiths.

Catholics see the Last Supper as a sort of Seder, so they may celebrate a Last Supper type meal with separate rituals and traditions. Often Christians and Jews celebrate Seders together to rejoice in their similarities, rather than their differences, since we live in such a global, interfaith prevalent society.

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