Not everyone can make it home for the holidays, but Hillel worked to make a home for everyone this weekend for Passover.
As Passover began Saturday, more than 80 Northwestern students and community members gathered in the Louis Room at Norris University Center for Hillel Cultural Life’s annual Seder.
The Jewish tradition of a Seder dates back almost 3,000 years to the time of Moses. It is used to retell and represent the struggle of the Jews as they searched for the promised land.
A series of rituals and traditions are enacted as the story of the Exodus from Egypt is told.
Mike Uram, a Rabbinical student and former NU Jewish Campus Service Corp Fellow, led the Seder on Saturday. He described it as not just a retelling, but a tradition with a deeper meaning.
“The main idea is to re-affirm our love and belief in God and that God is the creator of the universe,” said Rachel Spiro, Hillel’s program director.
As students participated in the Seder, they were encouraged by Uram to get involved and discuss various aspects of the tradition.
Consisting of rituals, a meal and singing, a Seder is celebrated in different ways from family to family. NU students who can’t be with family for Seder will have a variety of opportunities to celebrate.
As Passover continues through Saturday, Hillel will continue to offer special meals for Jewish students. Hillel also sponsored Seders-to-go, a second Seder on Sunday night and a Greek Seder for students in sororities and fraternities.
“We want every Jewish student who wants to attend a Seder to have the opportunity,” Spiro said.
Seth Cohen, a Weinberg junior, attended the Greek Seder last year and said he was looking forward to the Seder on Saturday.
“The great thing about the Seder here at Northwestern is that it offers an opportunity to create many fond memories,” he said. “What could be better than spending the holiday with some of your newest, closest friends?”
And although many students go home or visit friends and family for Passover, there are some students who just can’t do that, Spiro said.
“We’re here because not everyone can be with family,” she said. “We’re here to meet those needs.”