Pesah is the central holiday of the Jewish people. The word “pesah” means «pass over». Initial meaning of the holiday is connected with Jewish exodus from Egypt after many years of slavery.

For several years family of Ishaja Kogen have been visiting our city for making seders. They tell to Shymkent community about story of Pesah. This year rabbi Shoue Kogen and his wife came to make it once again. On April 17th we made last Passover preparations such as cleaning cafe’s kitchen and inviting the visitors. Sponsors from our Jewish community Brodsky Slavik and Murduhaev Zelik made charitable help paying for two days in cafe.

On April, 18th and 19, 2011 seders were made. More than 120 persons of Shymkent Jewish community came for it. The Jewish community of Almaty sent to Shymkent kosher meat, matza, juice and wine for holiday. Director of hesed Bell Atran wished everybody happy holidays. In the beginning woman lit candles and men had prayer. Rabbi Shnoue told story about exodus from Egypt and about symbolical dish. It is unleavened bread - matza which is eaten for fulfilling Torah precept, bitter greens – maror and hazeret symbolizing bitterness of the Egyptian slavery, and also a mix from grated apples, dates, nuts and wine – haroset. During a meal we drink four glasses of red wine. During seder time rabbi showed sequence of seder stages. We sang songs and ate matza.
Atran Alexey, Meredin Dmitry, Chibisova Irina and hesed workers led by director Bella Atran took active part in the holiday preparations. Thanks to women who made holiday meals.

Hag sameah Pesah!

Bella Atran