Brandeis students hold model Seder

Students from nursery through eighth grade at The Brandeis School in Lawrence held model Seders on March 23, in advance of the Jewish holiday of Passover that lasts for eight days. This year it began on the night of March 30.

Passover celebrates the ancient Hebrews exodus from Egypt after roughly 400 years of slavery. The story about the struggle to be free is recounted at the Seder table using the Haggadah as the guide through history and custom.

The word Seder means order, and there is a specific order to how it is conducted, as it offers symbols that move the story along. When families celebrate, everyone has a role from the youngest to the oldest in retelling the story. The youngest ask the questions, while older children and adults respond or join in song.

Discussion ensures that everyone feels as if they were part of the exodus. The sixth-graders used creative masks to engage the children, while the youngest students were taught songs of thankfulness for the miracle of freedom. Traditions in Lawrence catered the meals. “Passover is a time for families to come together and celebrate the concept of freedom,” said Head of School Raz Levin.