by Rabbi Menachem Creditor, Pearl and Ira Meyer Scholar-in-Residence 

As we gather around our seder tables, we remember: “In every generation, each person must see themselves as if they personally left Egypt.” We do not merely retell an ancient story; we live it. We know the weight of oppression, and we know the power of resilience. Our ancestors emerged from Egypt with faith intact, hearts open, and hands ready to build.

So must we.

This year, while we continue to ache for the people of Israel, we celebrate the great rebuilding taking place. Since the horrors of October 7, we have witnessed unimaginable pain and astonishing resilience. Israelis, in the face of loss, have refused to surrender hope. Their courage calls to us: to strengthen our commitment, to raise our voices, to build a world where Jewish safety and dignity are not dreams but reality. 

The Haggadah commands: "Let all who are hungry come and eat.” We who have known suffering must be the first to offer comfort. We who have known displacement must work to shelter the vulnerable. This is our sacred inheritance: to transform our pain into purpose, our memories into action. We do this throughout New York, around the world, and in our beloved homeland. 

And so, friends, as we lift four cups and sing, we proclaim with renewed urgency: “Next year in Jerusalem!” 

May it be a year of healing, of security, of peace. 

May our precious Jewish values continue to fuel our work of strengthening communities. 

May we never cease to dream of redemption.   

Chag Sameach. Happy Passover! Let us walk forward — together.