Monday, April 6th, our first day in Kishinev, we went to the park in the center of the city, enjoying the green scenery and nice weather. While the people in the park were very calm, there was in a short distance away from us a demonstration going on questioning the accuracy of the results of the latest elections. We didn’t even know it was so serious. Damage to the parliament was severe. Many people were arrested and sentenced to many years in jail.
On the first night of “Pessach”, when you came to synagogue you were greeted by nice and pretty clothing, and smiling faces. There was scent of joy in the air. The synagogue was so full, that there was no room to move. Even the people who can’t read from a “Siddur”, came to greet the holiday. It was so heartwarming.
Straight from the synagogue, we went to a fancy hall for the main “Seder”. Few hundred people came. It was very nice and inspiring. There was singing, kids sang the “Four Questions” we ask at the “Seder”, songs they learned about “Pessach”, and the customs that are done by a traditional “Seder”. There were a lot of Israeli students there, as well. They added life and spice to the evening.
The prayers in synagogue on “Pessach” in the morning were very very lively and beautiful. There is something out of the ordinary about the way they pray in the synagogue and it’s so nice to hear everyone sing together. We don’t experience such a thing in New York so often.
On the last day of Pessach, the synagogue was full of people who came to the synagogue for “Seudas Moshiach.” There was eating, more singing, we ate Matzo, and drank four cups of wine. It was so beautiful. Everyone there loved it.
This “Pessach” was one of my most favorite ‘pessachs’ in the whole world. It was just beautiful. I hope we can continue coming here year after year because I had so much fun here!
Zelda Abelsky
