A Message From Rabbi Sandler

Amidst the physical distancing forced upon us by the Coronavirus pandemic, the number of online learning opportunities within the Jewish community has exploded! If you look at our congregation's website, in addition to finding the Zoom links (who knew what Zoom was a couple of weeks ago?!) to the virtual learning opportunities we are offering nearly every day of the week, you will find a growing list of links to webinars offered by Jewish organizations throughout the country and Israel. Pick any day, and I hope you will find a learning opportunity that interests you.
 
Just yesterday, the Forward (yes, that Forward, known to some as the "Forverts") sponsored a session entitled, "The 11th Plague? Passover in a Pandemic." "The 11th Plague…" that part of the title caught my attention. Ironic, isn't it according to a message that people have forwarded to me which says that Passover will be "canceled" this year due to a plague! Catchy… if incorrect.
 
No, Passover will NOT be canceled this year. But as we begin to think about how very different the holiday, and specifically our Sedarim, will feel this year, maybe it does feel a little "plagued." Maybe this year, in a terrible twist of circumstances, many of us will feel enslaved by restrictions on our movement and ability to travel to loved ones or to welcome them at our Seder tables. We're supposed to feel free!! We're supposed to see ourselves leaving the bondage of Egypt and beginning, with the gift of our new freedom, an uplifting journey toward the Land of Israel! But many of us will be right here, possibly celebrating by ourselves or perhaps with very few loved ones this year. Oh, yes, this year Passover will be different. And the truth is Passover is going to be a struggle.
 
That is why Rabbi Rosenthal and I have begun to think about how we might be able to help you celebrate at your Seder during these challenging times. I recognize the possibility that this year's circumstances may serve to curb your celebration of Passover. I hope that won't be the case. The Coronavirus is already restricting our movement. Why would we unnecessarily hand it a spiritual triumph over us? It's time to start planning our Seder experience, and Rabbi Rosenthal and I want to help you!
 
Yes, we do have some thoughts along those lines already, and we will soon share them with you. But right now, we need YOUR help. What resources would you like for your Seder? Do you need an online Haggadah? Do you need help with leading the Seder because this will be the first time you have led it? Would you like some Seder tunes? Some cute songs? Please help us to support you as you plan for Passover. Please send Rabbi Rosenthal (lrosenthal@aasynagogue.org) or me (nsandler@aasynagogue.org) a note and let us know your thoughts, comments and how we can best help you at your Seder.
 
I wish you and your loved ones well–being during these challenging times. Be smart and be safe!
 
Rabbi Neil Sandler