Community Passover 5786 – A Story of Unity and Jewish Life in Moldova
Hundreds of members of the Jewish community in Moldova, from both sides of the Dniester River, gathered for the Community Passover 5786 celebration.
The hall was filled with a true festive atmosphere, as families, young people, and the elderly sat side by side, experiencing Passover through its four core themes — memory, freedom, family, and hope. It was not just a recollection of the past, but a living experience that brought hearts together and strengthened a sense of belonging.
The evening was opened by Alexander Bilinkis, Chairman of the Jewish Community and Vice President of the World Jewish Congress, who emphasized the importance of preserving tradition and strengthening Jewish life in Moldova. Greetings were also delivered by Marina Anukov of NATIV – the Israeli Cultural Center, and Benjamin Hadad of the Jewish Agency.
This was followed by the Chabad-Lubavitch rabbis of Moldova — Zushe Abelsky, Mendel Axelrod, Shmuel Zalmanov, and Mendel Gotzel — who recited the blessings over the four cups of wine.
Around them sat representatives of organizations, educators, youth groups, and community members of all ages — a vivid picture of one diverse and united community. The music of Victoria Lozinskaya accompanied the evening, adding depth, warmth, and joy.
The event was made possible through broad cooperation, and the community expressed its gratitude to its partners — the Embassy of Israel, JDC, the Jewish Agency, NATIV, ICTPD, Hillel Kishinev, and private donors.
Thus, in the heart of Chisinau, Passover 5786 took on a deeper meaning: not only a remembrance of the Exodus, but an ongoing story of a living, breathing, and united Jewish community.
