Rabbi Howard Morrison

Dear Congregational Family,

"Mah Nishtana Ha'Laila Ha'Zeh Mi'Kol Ha'Lailot - How is this night different from all other nights?"

This year, Pesach will be like no other for many obvious reasons. For some of us, our Sedarim will be smaller than usual. Out of country relatives and guests may be unable to come. Even those who live in local commuting distance may choose to avoid large gatherings.

In today's messages, you will find a reprint from our Pesach guide on authorizing me to sell your chametz on your behalf. You may electronically send your consent to the office, which will acknowledge your intent. The office will print your form and leave it for me.

While we hope that sufficient volumes of Pesach food will be in the stores, there are no guarantees. For those who are comfortable, you may rely on the lenient rulings of the Conservative rabbinate regarding the use of kitniot - legumes. Please refer to the synagogue's Pesach guide for the rationale and rulings by the Rabbinical Assembly's Committee on Jewish Law and Standards.

If we are still not able to gather publicly prior to Pesach, I intend to teach a siyum for the first born on erev Pesach, Wednesday April 8 at 8:00 am via Facebook livestream. More details will follow.

One of the reasons we open the door during the Seder for Elijah the Prophet is to ensure the safety of our homes and families. This notion harkens back to the Middle Ages when Jews were falsely accused of blood libel. While the circumstances are far different now, please do everything possible to ensure your safety during these challenging times.

Sincerely,

Rabbi Howard Morrison