Interfaith Celebration of Passover

Griffin K. ’26 and music teacher Isabella Gentleman host Passover celebration for students.

A group of twenty-five students gathered to celebrate Passover led by Griffin K. ’26 and music teacher Isabella Gentleman. Open to students of all backgrounds, the event was an interfaith gathering of tradition, learning, and community.

Passover, as Griffin explained, commemorates the Exodus—the escape of enslaved Jewish people from Egypt thousands of years ago. It’s traditionally a time when families come together to reflect, retell the story, and share a symbolic meal called the Seder. “Since Passover didn’t fall during spring break this year, I wanted to celebrate and build that sense of tradition and community here, said Griffin. He reached out to Ms. Gentleman, and together, they brought the Seder to campus.

“I wanted to celebrate and build that sense of tradition and community here.”

Ms. Gentleman is a resident in the newly constructed “Village in the Woods,” a neighborhood of eight homes completed as part of the ongoing home@eaglehill campaign. “Being in faculty housing right on campus makes it easy for us to provide a home-cooked meal in a space that feels different than a dorm,” Ms. Gentleman said. The welcoming environment helped set the tone for the evening.

Griffin researched and selected a Haggadah—the book read aloud during the Seder that guides participants through the rituals, prayers, and songs. Students sang together, learned about the historical significance of each part of the meal, and shared reflections on the themes of freedom, struggle, and renewal.

The Seder plate included:

• Horseradish– a bitter herb symbolizing the suffering during slavery
• Haroset – a sweet fruit paste representing the mortar used by Jewish slaves to build in ancient Egypt
• Egg – a symbol of rebirth and the cycle of life
• Parsley (karpas) – representing spring and renewal
• Lamb shank bone– symbolizing the Passover sacrifice offered in ancient times
• Orange – an addition Griffin made to honor those who haven’t always had a seat at the table: women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and others who were historically excluded from religious spaces

The menu featured classic dishes: Matzo Ball Soup, Matzo Toffee, Coconut Macaroons, and a family favorite—Griffin K’s Omi’s Brisket.

“It was a wonderful event for Jews and non-Jews alike,” Griffin shared. “I felt so supported and like I was building a community.”