15 April 2019

Jewish Care in partnership with Northwood and Pinner Liberal Synagogue (NPLS) ran a Pesach Seder at its Memory Matters fortnightly day care programme.

The programme was established to support Jews just too far away from other Jewish Care facilities. It supports up to 15 guests at each session and provides respite for carers.

Running with an idea from NPLS’s Care Team, Rabbi Aaron Goldstein led an abridged Seder using traditional liturgy, creative readings and discussion, songs and movement to provide spiritual, mental and physical uplift. Everyone took turns to read, reminisce and participate as to their ability.

Highlights included ‘walking’ through the sea of reeds with the Israelites, ‘swaying’ like the palm trees on the shore and raucously shouting the animal noises for Chad Gadya / Un Cavritico. The three-course kosher meals are provided by Jewish Care and cooked by NPLS volunteers on site.

Aaron, who is also chair of the Conference of Liberal Rabbis and Cantors, commented: “For a number of our guests, this will be their only Pesach Seder experience. To do so in a safe space that provides them with professional support of Jewish Care and the love of NPLS volunteers brought blessing to guests, volunteers and staff alike. This is the Jewish Community at its best.”

If you are interested in Memory Matters for yourself or a relative, please contact angela@npls.org.uk.

If you would like your Pesach pictures featured in Liberal Judaism media, including LJ Today, please email s.rothstein@liberaljudaism.org.