Elijah - the Only Guest at Passover 2020!

Passover during pandemic: When Elijah is our only guest

(Rabbi) Sharon G. Forman (New York)

'Elijah is a shape shifter, a master of disguise, a miracle worker. When a person is kind to Elijah dressed as a beggar, goodness follows.'

I came across this interesting blog by (Rabbi) Sharon G Forman.  The link to the article is below for those who may be interested.  She reflects on a Passover around 45 years ago when (as a 7 year old child) her mother was quarantined due to hepatitis, and the four children in the family couldn’t visit her. She remembers that life then, as it is today, was topsy turvy!  Her  mother’s voice, over the phone, chanted “Avadim Hayinu” – Once we were slaves to Pharaoh in Mitzrayim, but now we are free.

https://blogs.timesofisrael.com/passover-during-pandemic-when-elijah-is-our-only-guest/

She is now facing the same isolation for Passover 2020 for her family during the Corona Virus pandemic, a Seder celebrated in a heightened time of isolation with just immediate family.  She asks the questions – How do we create a Seder in this time of social distance? How do we honour generations-long traditions that have become precious to our families?

The blog is very poignant and interesting, but quite long, so I will highlight the end words (remember that this is from the perspective of one living in Covid 19 ravaged New York). 

“When we open the door at last to welcome Elijah, we can breathe in clear air, wave at neighbours from a safe distance, and remind ourselves that better days can follow. In Jewish tradition, Elijah brings good news, and we could all use some of that right now.”

Maranatha!!  Denis in Canberra