Story perspectives

Passover 2026: Celebrations Amid Rising Antisemitism and Tensions

4/2/2026

Center

Passover Observations Amid Tensions

Passover 2026 runs from sundown on April 1 to nightfall on April 9.
This year, the holiday coincides with Christian Holy Week, including Easter.
Jewish families will observe Seders with symbolic foods and the recitation of the Haggadah.
Rising antisemitism has many in the Jewish community expressing concerns about attending communal celebrations.
In Israel, the holiday is marked by urgency due to tensions with Iran, affecting the atmosphere of freedom.

Right

Rabbi's Legacy Illuminates

Passover 2026 begins at sundown on April 1 and invites reflection on Jewish American identity.
Rabbi Max Lilienthal's 1865 sermon linked the holiday's liberation themes to the end of the Civil War and President Lincoln's legacy.
He emphasized gratitude for freedom and the shared struggle for liberty.
Today, rising antisemitism makes these echoes timely, and Lilienthal's eulogy underscores the enduring impact of his ideals.

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Passover Observations Amid Tensions

Passover 2026 runs from sundown on April 1 to nightfall on April 9.
This year, the holiday coincides with Christian Holy Week, including Easter.
Jewish families will observe Seders with symbolic foods and the recitation of the Haggadah.
Rising antisemitism has many in the Jewish community expressing concerns about attending communal celebrations.
In Israel, the holiday is marked by urgency due to tensions with Iran, affecting the atmosphere of freedom.

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