Thousands of Jews from across Moscow, came together this Passover to participate in communal Passover Seder nights held throughout the city, reflecting the strength and unity of Jewish life in the Russian capital. Following careful and extensive preparations, dozens of public Seders were organized in neighborhoods across Moscow, welcoming participants of all backgrounds and ages to experience the holiday in a warm and meaningful atmosphere.
At the center of the celebrations was the grand Seder held at the Marina Roscha Synagogue, where more than 1,200 people filled the main sanctuary and surrounding halls. The Seder was led by the Chief Rabbi of Russia, Rabbi Berel Lazar, together with Rabbi Mordechai Weisberg, Director of the Jewish Community, and continued late into the night with a sense of inspiration and dignity.
Alongside the central gathering, Seders were conducted in Jewish educational institutions across the city, as well as in numerous JCC’s and Chabad Houses, where hundreds of students and local residents joined in the traditional readings, songs, and festive meal.
In preparation for the holiday, widespread efforts ensured that every member of the Jewish community could observe Passover with pride and dignity. Kosher stores across Moscow were stocked with Passover products, while thousands of packages of handmade Shmura matzah were distributed, enabling many to observe the mitzvah properly.
A key highlight was the ‘Kimcha D’Pischa’ charitable initiative at the Shaarey Tzedek Jewish Chesed Center, which provided essential food items, including meat, wine, and matzah, to those in need across Moscow in a respectful and supportive manner.
Extending beyond the capital, dozens of yeshiva students traveled from Moscow to remote cities across Russia, bringing the Passover Seder to communities without a permanent rabbi. Their efforts helped ensure that Jews in even the most distant locations were able to celebrate Passover in accordance with tradition, reinforcing a shared sense of connection across the country.
Photos: Levi Nazarov
