Note from the President: Passover Thoughts

Thoughts from the NTHC President Heidi Doyle

As we approach Passover, I would like to share a personal story that illustrates the profound meanings of freedom and social justice.

From 1993 to 1995, our family lived in Saudi Arabia, where we were the only Jewish family in the country. Navigating life as Reform observant Jews in a nation that officially supports the Arab League stance against Israel presented unique challenges and memorable experiences.

During our time there, we were fortunate to befriend a wonderful expat family who shared our love for camping and adventure. One spring break, we embarked on a challenging 12-hour drive and a three-hour ferry ride to the Farsan Islands off the southeastern coast of Saudi Arabia. That year, we celebrated Passover on the shores of the Red Sea!

Our traditional Seder embraced the readings from our family Haggadah, featuring familiar foods that we improvised, as kosher for Passover items were lacking at the Post Exchange and local Safeway. As we sat in our camp chairs, recounting the Exodus from lands just across the horizon, the significance of this ritual resonated deeply within me. Passover is so much more than a week of matzah and peanut butter; it embodies our gratitude for the tenacity and faith of our ancestors. It inspires us to build on this legacy, urging our community to seek justice in a world where, too often, human rights take a back seat to economic “progress.”

Now, having settled in North Lake Tahoe, we eagerly anticipate celebrating Passover with our extended family of cherished friends at the community Seder. Together, we will honor our individual and collective journeys while we identify ways to contribute to a better world. This Passover, I hope you too experience your own Red Sea moment.

Warm regards,

Heidi Doyle, President

North Tahoe Hebrew Congregation