Despite the ongoing war and the state of emergency in the city, Kyiv’s Jewish community marked Passover this year with a series of events held around the city, led by Chief Rabbi and Chabad emissary Rabbi Yonatan Markovitch and his son Rabbi Ariel Markovitch.
“This year, more than ever, we understood how important it is to reach every Jew, no matter where they are,” said Rabbi Yonatan Markovitch, Chief Rabbi of Kyiv.
“Passover is a holiday of freedom, but also of unity and responsibility for every Jew. In the complex reality we are living in, seeing the community come together people arriving, singing together, and strengthening one another gives us the strength to continue, despite the difficult circumstances.”
Central Seders were held at the Jewish Community Center Beit Menachem and at the Or Avner Perlina school. At the same time, a special Seder was held for Jewish detainees at the Lukyanivka detention facility. Matzah and holiday kits were also distributed to Jewish prisoners in correctional facilities throughout Ukraine.
Ukrainian government officials celebrate Passover
Senior officials from the Office of the President of Ukraine attended the holiday events organized by the JCC Beit Menachem, including Chief of Staff Kyrylo Budanov and his deputy Iryna Mudra, who is also a member of the Jewish community.
President Volodymyr Zelensky also received matzah from the Chief Rabbi ahead of the holiday and conveyed a special message of greeting to the community through him. In his Passover message, Zelensky wished light to all those who celebrate the holiday during times of war.
"It is time to restore security," he said. "It is time for all leaders to act together to create greater opportunities for a normal life. It is time for everyone with goodwill in their hearts to unite so that everyone has reliable protection and a good life."