Ilyssa Klein’s Passover Message for 2026

Lately, I’ve been thinking about what it means to be a good Jew, especially as a parent and as part of this community. For me, it is not defined by any one practice, but by the everyday moments where we choose kindness, patience, and connection. I see it in the small acts, in how we show up for one another, and in the values we try to pass on to our children. Those choices, quiet as they may be, feel like the truest expression of our tradition.

This year, as we gather to celebrate Passover, we are reminded of the enduring story of freedom, resilience, and hope. The rituals of the holiday invite us not only to remember our past, but to consider our responsibility to one another in the present.

Our family recently experienced these values in a deeply personal way as we celebrated our daughter’s bat mitzvah. Watching her step forward, take ownership of her learning, and lead with confidence and heart was a powerful reminder of the strength and continuity of our tradition. In that moment, we saw the beauty of l’dor v’dor, from generation to generation, come alive. Next month, we’ll celebrate our son’s confirmation, continuing a meaningful tradition. It’s been rewarding to watch him realize the positive impact he can have on the world through his recent fundraising work with Blood Cancer United, helping those in need.

Wishing our entire community a joyful and meaningful Passover. May we continue to learn from one another, celebrate our milestones together, and carry our values forward, l’dor v’dor, with pride and purpose.

Ilyssa Klein is an Account Manager with Atlanta Jewish Times.