Senator Van Welcomes the Start of Passover

Today is the start of Passover, and I would like to send my best wishes to my friends and family celebrating Pesach in Victoria, and right across Australia.

Passover is one of the most significant Jewish holidays that commemorates the exodus of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. Observed for eight days, the main event of the Passover holiday is the Seder, a festive meal in which the story of the exodus is recited.

One of the Seder rituals is the tradition of storytelling, where families, friends, and even strangers join together and share the tale of the exodus. While this year’s Passover events will be celebrated differently to most years, I am sure that retelling the story of the Exodus of the Israelites from Egypt to the promised lands will remain in the forefront of the community at this time. The story of the Israelites leaving Israel chased by an army and sustained by faith and hope has been told and retold over thousands of years. These events have comforted countless Jewish families during times of oppression and serve as a great encouragement to us all during these challenging times.

During these uncertain times, Passover provides us all a special opportunity to renew our belief in things unseen and unknown. From my family to yours, Chag Sameach.