Pesach means passing over in Hebrew, because the Jews were passed over by death when the firstborn of Egypt were destroyed after the pharaoh refused to free the Jewish slaves. About 60 people, some from as far away as England, are expected to share the observance at a community Seder with Rabbi Yitzchok Hurwitz at Chabad. Chabad is an acronym derived from Hebrew words meaning knowledge, wisdom and understanding. For the occasion, family will also include local residents who will come to learn how Seder is made and those who have no other family. Traditionally, on the first two nights of the eight-day celebration the family conducts the most important aspect of Passover, called the Seder, a meal with special foods and a reiteration of the events that led up to the exodus.
Strict rules govern the occasion.
No yeast foods or grains, called chametz, are allowed in the home, in remembrance of the hasty departure that allowed no time for the bread to rise. Matzo, unleavened bread made of flour and water, is eaten instead. Its preparation is carefully monitored. It is traditionally supposed to be handmade, round and tasteless, and if it's not prepared in less than 18 minutes, it is considered leavened and cannot be eaten. All non-kosher foods in the home must be disposed of before Passover.