This year, hundreds of Jews came together to celebrate the Seder in five different communities across Moldova, in a wide-reaching initiative led by Chabad of Moldova. From the capital, Chisinau, to more remote cities, the spirit of Passover was felt everywhere. The organization of the Seders throughout the country was led with dedication by Rabbi Shneur Zalman Tiffenbrun.
The central Seder took place in Chisinau, in a festive setting at the Radisson Blu Leogrand Hotel. Hundreds of participants sat around beautifully arranged tables, read the Haggadah together, sang, and relived the story of the Exodus in an atmosphere of unity and Jewish pride. The Seder was led by Rabbi Shmuel Zalmanov, with greetings delivered by Simcha Buzor, Alexander Bilinkis, President of the Jewish Community of Moldova, Chief Rabbi Mendel Axelrod, and Rabbi Zushe Abelsky, shliach and Chairman of the Jewish Community – Chabad of Moldova.
At the same time, a moving Seder was held in Bender (Transnistria), led by Rabbi Mendel Gotsel, with dedicated assistance from Nochum Gotsel. In addition, to reach smaller and more remote communities, seven yeshiva students came to Moldova, bringing energy and joy to the Seders. In Rybnitsa — Yeshayahu Yosef HaCohen Katz and Shalom Halevi Fischer; in Cahul — Shneur Zalman Reitzes and Avraham Baruch Yunik; and in Balti — Aharon Yakubovitz and Yosef Meir Zaytsev.
Alongside the Seders, a large distribution campaign was carried out, providing nearly one thousand sets of handmade shmurah matzah and food packages to those in need, enabling many families to celebrate Passover with dignity in their own homes.
This entire effort reflects a vibrant and growing Jewish community, strengthening Jewish identity and passing on the story of Passover to the next generation.
