This was not just a celebration, but a deeply meaningful event, rich in symbolism, history, and heartfelt connection.

The Seder is more than a festive meal. It is a living retelling of the Exodus — the story of the Jewish people's journey from Egyptian slavery to freedom, filled with messages of faith, unity, and determination. This year, Passover began on the evening after Shabbat — a rare and special alignment that added even greater significance to each moment of our gathering. The atmosphere in the Hesed hall was warm, welcoming, and filled with a sense of home, thanks to sincere smiles, kind words, mutual support, and a powerful sense of community. 

Volunteers took care of every detail: they ordered and delivered all the necessary items, and lovingly prepared traditional dishes at home for the ke’arah — the symbolic Passover plate. On the morning before the Seder, four volunteers from Kyiv Hesed decorated the space and arranged each table with great care. The Seder itself was led by Hillel volunteers, who guided the evening with a deep understanding of tradition, attention to detail, and genuine warmth that touched every guest.

Together, we recited blessings, listened to explanations about the structure of the Seder, remembered the story of Moses and the Ten Plagues, tasted Hillel’s sandwich, and explored the meaning behind each symbolic food on the table. This gathering was significant not only for preserving tradition, but for offering each participant a sense of belonging, care, and community. 

At the end of the evening, everyone received matzah and a copy of the Haggadah of Ukraine to continue the celebration at home with their families. Twenty-five displaced persons took part in the event — people who have found not only support, but true warmth and connection in our community.

We ended the evening with words of kindness and heartfelt wishes: a kosher, peaceful, and warm Passover to us all. This celebration left lasting impressions and brought us even closer together, as one big Jewish family.