Chabad to Host Passover Seders

The Chabad Jewish Center will host twotraditional Passover Seders Friday and Saturday and it's inviting Moorpark residents to attend.

The Passover, or Pesach, holiday celebrates the freedom of the Jews from slavery under the Egyptian King Pharaoh. The story of the Jews' freedom, or the Exodus, tells of the ten plagues brought upon Pharaoh and his followers before the king would release the Israelite slaves. The last of the plagues was the death of the people's first born, except for those of the Jews, who were passed over.

"The concept of freedom is needed and relevant in America now more than ever," said Rabbi Shimy Heidingsfeld, director of the Chabad of Moorpark, in an announcement for the event. "Passover is the ideal time to celebrate freedom."

The highlight of the Passover celebration is the seder, a dinner full of symbolism, during which the story of the Exodus is retold using a special text called the Haggadah. Guest participation is common and the seder includes questions and answers to involve the children at the dinner.

"This seder will focus on being liberated from the daily challenges and tribulations that bind and confine us by encouraging personal growth and self development," Heidingsfeld said.

The Moorpark Chabad seders will take place at 7 p.m. Friday and at 7:15 p.m. Saturday. The Chabad is asking for a $25 donation for adults and $18 donation per child to cover the cost of the dinner; however, nobody will be turned away for lack of funds. To make reservations, visit the Chabad of Moorpark website.

To receive a free Passover guide or hand made Shmura Matza for your own seder or for more information, call the Chabad at 805-242-2232 or send an email to Seder@JewishMoorpark.com.