Dear Rady Friends,

Later this week, many of us in our community will gather around the Seder table to welcome Passover.

For Jewish families, it is one of the most meaningful nights of the year. A time to come together, tell an ancient story, ask questions, share traditions, and yes – eat a lot of matzah.

Here at the Rady, our family reflects many backgrounds and beliefs. In fact, more than half of our members are not Jewish. But chances are, wherever we come from, most of us know at least a little something about Passover.

Maybe you discovered the story through the late 90s animated film The Prince of Egypt. And if you did, you might even remember Whitney Houston and Mariah Carey singing ‘When You Believe’ on the soundtrack. Apparently, it only took ten plagues to make that duet happen!

Maybe for you, it’s Charlton Heston, staff raised, booming “Let my people go!” reminding everyone that drama and Passover go hand in hand.

Or maybe your introduction came from one of my personal all-time favorites, Jerry Seinfeld, who once said that the Seder is the only dinner where people show up hungry and then spend the first hour reading a book before they are allowed to eat.

If you’ve ever sat through a Seder, you know the evening comes with its own traditions. The four questions. The search for the afikomen, a piece of matzah that always seems to be hidden in the same spot under the couch cushion year after year. Someone explaining why we lean while eating. And at least one family member insisting the brisket still needs “just a few more minutes.”

Whether through movies, jokes, or a family Seder, Passover is ultimately about freedom, resilience, and hope; universal ideas that speak to everyone, not just those who celebrate it.

It is about remembering where we came from, appreciating the freedoms we enjoy today, and gathering with the people who matter most.

At the Rady, we see those values come to life every day. On our fitness floor and in our pool, our many arts and cultural programs, our inclusion events, our summer day camps, and in the simple conversations that happen in our locker rooms and throughout the Asper Campus. People from all walks of life coming together, supporting one another, and building something that truly feels like community.

That sense of belonging is something special, and it is something we never take for granted.

As Passover approaches, I hope the days ahead bring you time with family and the people who make life meaningful. Whether you are celebrating Passover or simply enjoying the arrival of spring, may the season bring warmth and a little extra joy to your table.

On behalf of the Rady JCC Board of Directors as well as my fellow Rady staff, I wish you nothing but love and happiness, today and always.

And, for those who do celebrate, remember this: the Seder might be the only dinner where asking more questions is actually encouraged!

Chag Pesach sameach.

Rob Berkowits
Chief Executive Officer
Rady JCC