Editors Note: In the Jewish religion, the spelling of the word for the Almighty uses a dash instead of the vowel: G–d.
The annual Jewish festivity came alive as Rabbi Paul Shleffar welcomed the attendees from both the outside and the inside community to celebrate Jewish freedom with a traditional Seder.
Rabbi Shleffar talked about the meaning of Passover and introduced his co-host Kiki Lipsett. Lipsett spoke a few words and then lit the candle while reciting the blessing in Hebrew.
“Blessed are You, Lord G–d, King of the Universe, who has sanctified us with His commandments, and commanded us to kindle the light of this Holy Day,” said the translation.
According to Jewish tradition, Passover permits each person to identify with ancestors in G–d’s deliverance from bondage.
The Rabbi talked about the ancestors of persons present at the event and encouraged them to bring those who have passed into the room.
A Jewish band performed a melody that set a welcome tone. “Today is a reminder of the suffering of the Jews,” said Moises Ramos, lead singer, “Lets celebrate together.”
Rabbi Shleffar blessed the event by saying, “We sanctify the service with the blessings of the wine.” The event served grape juice.
Lipsett then told the story of the Seder and invited the audience to tell stories about someone significant in their lives.
“I think that the band was fantastic, it sounded as if they were on a grand concert,” said Daniel Uzilevsky, a volunteer who worked as music producer. “I feel the love, it feels great. I feel the joy.”
Resident Jessy Zetino talked about his stepfather, whom he hated in his youth because he felt that the stepfather had taken love from his mother when they first married. He also pointed out that he felt small when his mother did not give him the attention he wanted from her.
Zetino since managed to turn around the situation. He said his stepfather has been a blessing for him because his stepfather has supported him throughout the years of his incarceration. Zetino now loves him.
“If you are welcoming the path of this journey you shall love yourself and your neighbor,” said Rabbi Shleffar. “You have to love everyone, treat everything as you love them.”
Participants took turns discussing the blessings for which they felt thankful. Cohost Lipsett talked about how a recent illness gave her a sense of appreciation. Greg Moore, a visitor, spoke next about family and a childhood friend who had invited him to take part in this service.
“Gratitude is based on the attitude of my attitude,” said resident Aaron Carrillo. “Even in my darkest moments, the Lord is teaching something and in suffering there is beauty.”
MTC teacher Ariel Raymon talked about how her newborn had health issues. Prior to giving birth, her intuition had told her that something might go wrong. She had consulted her doctor and saved her child’s life, for which she felt grateful.
Resident Raymond Torres talked about having two autistic children who are now grown and how grateful he felt to have them in his life.
At the end of service, Rabbi Shleffar expressed gratitude for everyone who helped him make this Seder possible. “I feel the love in this room today,” said Rabbi Shleffar.
“I honestly didn’t know what to expect before I came in,” said Ulrika Shragge who flew from Texas just to come to SQRC for Passover. “Everybody was friendly, and I thought that there was going to be all Jewish people, but I sat with four Muslims in here. Maybe the world can learn from it. No matter what you think, everyone in here is human, and I am so happy to be here.”
According to Harmon Shragge, who had never visited San Quentin, coming into the facility felt weird, but he said the officers seemed friendly and the entry process went smoothly.
SQRC resident Anand Jon Alexander composed and performed “Illuminate (We shall Love),” a song about not just honoring the one Creator but all of creation. The lyrics recognized the divine spark within.
The program of the event gave special thanks to Ariel Raymon, Raquel Dunoff, Sinai Memorial Chapel via The Milton & Sophie Myer Fund for their contribution.
