This Shabbat is the one directly before Passover and therefore is called the “Great Shabbat” – one of freedom and preparation, learning and anticipation.
We have an excellent JCRC here in Western New York. (You can read all about it here:
https://buffalojewishfederation.org/community-relations/) The Jewish Community Relations Council “inspired by Jewish values, seeks to sustain a more civil and caring community in Western New York and around the world”.
For Passover, the JCRC is making a natural connection to “2 for Seder,” www.2forseder.org, which proposes:
Holding or attending a Seder?
Invite two friends or acquaintances who have never attended a Seder to join and participate.
Anti-Semitism stems from many sources. Some misconceptions or misunderstandings happen due to a lack of knowledge. We can make a difference at this year’s Seder.
By opening our homes at this most Jewish of holidays we invite our friends to walk beside us while we take our journey from slavery to freedom as members of the Jewish people. Together, our guests will learn from us and each other and experience something wonderful!
Bring two or more people into our homes on Passover – welcome the “not-so-stranger” and extend the definition of family. Let’s repair the world one festive meal at a time!
A good week to all of you, and a “Zissen Pesach” to come!
Jonathan