Seder Still Special After 22 Years

Congregation Shearith Israel played host to the 22nd annual Special Seder on Sunday, March 18, serving about 100 adults with disabilities and their caretakers.

The inclusive celebration was created in 1997 by Arlene Koslow and Rachael Rosenberg after Rosenberg’s daughter, Marla, had become disabled because of treatment for childhood leukemia. They remain the organizers of the free event and its army of volunteers.

Each guest has a complete seder plate and partakes in the full Passover experience and meal. For some, it is their only seder.

To donate, volunteer or attend next year, contact Rosenberg at rkrjr2@comcast.net. Donations to the Rosenberg Seder Fund at Shearith Israel can be made at shearithisrael.com/donations.

Photos by Leah R. Harrison

: JF&CS CEO Rick Aranson enumerates the Ten Plagues as Rabbi Ari Kaiman and Josiah Benator dip.

: Marla Rosenberg personally greets every Special Seder guest upon arrival.

: Just as they have every year since 2005, the Pomeranz family arrives for the Special Seder. Adam Pomeranz, the CEO of Annandale Village and co-chair of Federation’s Jewish Abilities Alliance, says the seder works to “ensure the Jewish community is welcoming and inclusive of all people.”