TORONTO — Ve’ahavta: The Canadian Jewish Humanitarian and Relief Committee is hosting its 10th annual Passover seder on April 9, the night of the second seder.
Jacqueline Stein, who is organizing the event in collaboration with Habonim Congregation, said she expects between 125 and 130 people, both Jews and non-Jews, the majority of whom live on the streets or in subsidized housing.
The theme of the event is a “seder for solidarity” she said.
“I want the Jewish public to know that unified communities where religious and cultural differences are not only accepted but also celebrated is a model of the present and of the future.”
The traditional, kosher seder – most of the food is donated – will be led by Habonim’s religious leader, Eli Rubenstein, and will be inclusive, she said. “It gives people a better understanding of Jewish culture and history.”
In keeping with the theme, she is planning a photo exhibition to be displayed at the seder about Toronto’s diverse communities.
“We’re having a photographer go out and take pictures throughout the city. We want the people to have a sense of what’s going on in the city and who their neighbours are.”
The seder has a strong following, and many of its guests look forward to it each year. “People do come because of the meal, but they also come because they have an appreciation for the event and what it stands for,” she said.
“There is no assigned seating, because we want friends to sit together. With entertainment for the children, there is an air of liveliness throughout the evening.”
She has spread word about the seder at shelters throughout the city, and agencies such as Jewish Family & Child pass on information to their clients, said Stein.
To find out more about the seder – there are a number of spots available for synagogue members and paying guests – call 416-964-7698.
