Passover Begins Monday Night at Sunset

It’s almost time to break out the matzo. Passover arrives on Monday, March 25 this year, when Jews across the world will come together to retell the Exodus story over four cups of wine (or grape juice for those who can't indulge), and of course, a large, festive feast.

In Waterford, Temple Emanu-El is holding a Passover Seder tonight at 6:30 p.m. (reservations required); a Passover morning service at 10:30 a.m. March 26, and Shabbat evening services on March 29 at 7:30 p.m. You'll find a full list of all services and activities on the Temple's web site. 

In New London, Congregation Beth El Synagogue is holding a 2nd Seder on Tuesday, March 26 at 6:30 p.m. You'll find more Passover events and services listed on the Synagogue's web site. 

In Madison, Temple Beth Tikvah is also planning a Community Passover Seder on the second night of  Passover, Tuesday March 26, at 6 PM. The evening of Song and Spiritual Celebration will be led by Rabbi Offner and Rick Calvert. In addition, participants will be offered a catered meal as they celebrate with friends and family. The flyer posted with this story offers additional details.

Additional events related to Passover are listed on the Temple Beth Tikvah calendar.

For information about Passover and Chabad of the Shoreline in Guilford, please visit their website. 

Gift shop stocked

The gift shop at Temple Beth Tikvah in Madison is stocked with all ritual items. It is open from 9:30 a.m. to noon on Sunday or by appointment. Please call the office at 203-245-7028 or email giftshop@templebethtikvahct.org for additional details. 

The Seder checklist provided by Temple Beth Tikvah includes: 

- Seder Plate
- Haggadahs
- Elijah/Miriam Cup
- Hostess Gift
- Activities for children
- Chocolate for Passover

Here are some recipes for Passover including brisket and goodies made with matzo.

Passover traditions

As the story goes, during their flight from slavery, the Jews did not have enough time for their dough to rise, resulting in a flaky cracker that is eaten instead of bread for a full week during Passover. The diet changes go beyond bread, however, and depend on family tradition.

As a general rule, just look for the “Kosher for Passover” label, which thankfully spreads to more products year after year.

Prior to the holiday, Jews clean their homes and get rid of chametz—food that is forbidden during Passover. The day before, this year on March 24, kids have the chance to search their homes by candlelight for any pieces of chametz left behind.

The Seder

On the first two nights of Passover, a Seder is held. This is when the story of Passover is told with the reading of the Haggadah. Some families even dress up and act out the story.

Songs are sung, including "Dayenu," and as tradition, children sing the Four Questions, or Ma Nishtana. Over the course of the night, four cups of wine are consumed to celebrate freedom. Bitter herbs are also eaten as a reminder of the pain of the Jewish slaves.

The middle of the holiday, from March 28 to 31, is an intermediate period, or Chol HaMoed, when there are fewer restrictions. On these days more observant Jews are allowed to drive and use electronics, and in rare instances, work. The final two days of Passover fall on April 1 and 2, and are considered Holy Days.