At Sholom, we are proud to be a community rooted in Jewish values—where traditions are honored, stories are shared, and everyone is welcome.
One of the most meaningful holidays we celebrate each year is Passover, a time rich in history, symbolism, and connection. Whether you’ve observed Passover your whole life or are learning about it for the first time, this season offers something deeply relevant for all of us.
What is Passover?
Passover is a major and joyous Jewish festival that commemorates the liberation of the Jewish people from slavery in Egypt more than 3,000 years ago.
At the heart of Passover is a powerful story of freedom, resilience, and hope.
As the story goes, when the Jewish people were finally freed, they had to leave Egypt in great haste. There was no time for their bread to rise—this is why matzah (unleavened bread) is eaten throughout the holiday, symbolizing both urgency and humility.
During Passover:
- Homes are carefully cleaned and prepared
- Leavened foods (called chametz) are removed
- Special foods are prepared in accordance with tradition
- Families and communities gather for Seder meals
The Passover Seder: A Living Story
The Seder—held on the first two evenings of Passover—is one of the most important and meaningful Jewish observances.
It is more than a meal—it is an experience.
Through storytelling, prayers, songs, and symbolic foods, participants retell and relive the journey from slavery to freedom using a special guidebook called the Haggadah.
Each item on the Seder plate carries meaning:
- Matzah – The “bread of affliction” and symbol of hurried escape
- Bitter herbs – The bitterness of slavery
- Saltwater – Tears shed during oppression
- Green vegetables – Renewal and spring
- Haroset – A sweet reminder of resilience through hardship
- Roasted egg & shank bone – Symbols of life, sacrifice, and tradition
Together, these elements create a powerful reminder of both struggle and liberation.
How We Celebrate Passover at Sholom
At Sholom, Passover is a time when our entire community comes together in meaningful and intentional ways.
All buildings that serve kosher food are carefully cleaned and prepared for Passover, ensuring traditions are honored with care and respect.
We are proud to host Passover Seders where residents, tenants, and families gather to share in this sacred experience—telling the story, enjoying traditional foods, and strengthening community bonds.
Throughout the holiday, especially on the designated Holy Days, an atmosphere of rest, reflection, and peace is felt across our campuses. Programming is thoughtfully adapted to align with the spirit of the holiday, focusing on:
- Worship and spiritual connection
- Gentle wellness activities like yoga and exercise
- Meaningful conversations and visits
- Music, films, and storytelling
- One-to-one connections and companionship
This intentional rhythm allows space for both tradition and personal reflection—something we deeply value as part of our Chai Wellness philosophy.
A Message That Still Matters Today
Passover is not only about remembering the past—it calls us to action in the present.
Jewish tradition teaches:
“Remember the stranger, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt.”
This message reminds us of our shared responsibility to lead with empathy, compassion, and justice—values that are deeply aligned with Sholom’s mission of Care, Compassion, and Community.
4 Ways Everyone Can Celebrate Passover
You don’t have to be Jewish to find meaning in Passover. Its themes are universal—and its lessons are for all of us.
Here are four simple, meaningful ways to celebrate:
1. Share a Meal with Meaning
Gather with loved ones and create space for gratitude. Even a simple meal can become meaningful when paired with reflection and connection.
2. Reflect on Freedom & Growth
What does freedom look like in your life? Passover invites us to let go of what holds us back and embrace new beginnings.
3. Learn & Listen to Stories
Passover is rooted in storytelling. Take time to learn about the holiday—or invite someone to share their story and traditions.
4. Practice Acts of Kindness (Chesed)
Honor the spirit of liberation by lifting others up. A small act of kindness can make a meaningful difference.
Find Your Belonging at Sholom
At Sholom, traditions like Passover are not just observed—they are lived, shared, and experienced together.
Whether through cultural celebration, spiritual connection, or everyday acts of kindness, we are committed to creating a community where everyone feels a sense of belonging.
Because here, everyone matters—and everyone is welcome.
