Chabad Moldova: Lighting Eyes, Igniting Souls
Moldova — This past Passover, 5785, brought a wave of light, Jewish pride, and renewed hope across Moldova. Chabad shluchim, together with devoted volunteers and generous supporters, worked tirelessly to reach every Jew — near and far.
They didn’t just distribute food or lead Seders. They delivered warmth, Jewish identity, and a deep sense of belonging to places where such moments are rare and deeply cherished.
Giving with Purpose: 1,200 Food Packages and 1.5 Tons of Matzah
Leading up to the holiday, Chabad distributed over 1,200 food packages. These bundles contained more than just groceries — they carried dignity, love, and care.
Additionally, the team delivered more than 1,500 kilograms of handmade matzah across Moldova. These matzahs reached families in towns and villages, reminding them they are part of something bigger.
Seders That Connected Souls
Chabad hosted three large Seders in Chișinău, Bender, and Bălți. These gatherings offered not just ritual, but deep emotional connection.
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In Chișinău, Rabbi Mendel Axelrod led the Seder at the main synagogue. His message echoed: “Even today, we live our own Exodus.”
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In Bender, Rabbi Mendel Gotzel filled the evening with singing, stories, and shared emotion. Families joined together, some for the very first time.
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In Bălți, Rabbi Yechiel Chusid created a home-like environment where everyone felt welcome — especially those who had never experienced a Seder before.
The Children’s Matzah Bakery: Where Freedom Comes Alive
The Children’s Matzah Bakery in Chișinău brought Jewish learning to life. Organized with care by shluchim Shneor Zalman and Chana Tipinbron, the experience gave dozens of children a hands-on way to connect.
They kneaded dough, rolled it flat, and watched it bake. More importantly, they learned that matzah represents strength, freedom, and Jewish pride.
This activity did more than entertain — it lit a spark inside each young soul.
Reaching the Forgotten: 18 Remote Communities Visited
While most would stop at major cities, Chabad continued further.
Rabbis Shmuel Kaplun, Yeshaya Yosef Katz, Levi Hecht, and Yechiel Chusid traveled to 18 communities, including Ungheni, Cahul, Soroca, and Basarabeasca.
At each doorstep, they brought matzah, wine, blessings, and a heartfelt message:
“You are not alone. We are with you. The Jewish people are with you.”
“This Wasn’t Just a Seder — It Was a Jewish Awakening”
“Because of your support,” shared Rabbi Zushe Abelsky, “we brought light and meaning into Jewish homes. We helped people feel connected, proud, and never forgotten.”
This Passover in Moldova wasn’t simply a holiday. It became a mission fulfilled — and a soul-stirring revival.
