IJC Seder 2026/5786

In spite of – or perhaps because of – the current geopolitical tensions, this year’s IJC Seder brought together a record number of participants: close to 90 people around multiple tables. It was especially heartening to welcome so many new faces, alongside wonderful interfaith guests who joined us in a spirit of curiosity and connection. There was a real sense of community in the room – familiar faces, new friendships forming, and a shared willingness to enter the story together. Our senior members were well represented, and our youngest participants truly brought the evening to life: confidently leading Mah Nishtanah and, with great enthusiasm and determination (and a little help), searching for – and finding – the afikomen.

New Haggadah

After many hours of preparation, we were delighted to use an interim draft of our new Haggadah. It wove together traditional texts with creative and contemporary elements, including a lively Maggid presented as a spiel and several moments of communal singing that lifted the energy in the room. There were also quieter, more reflective moments, as participants shared something of their own experiences of this past year’s “narrow spaces,” and how they had found – or were still searching for – strength, resilience and hope for the year ahead. We hope to have a final version of the Haggadah ready for next year’s Seder. In the meantime, your ideas and suggestions are very welcome – please feel free to contact Rabbi Brian (rabbi@ijc.be).

Splendid Tables

Catering for such a large gathering is never straightforward, so this year we decided to bring in some external help to ease the pressure on our volunteers, while still keeping a close eye on costs. We’re pleased to say it worked out very well - our shulchan orech meal was delicious, generous, and good value for money. The much-loved matzo ball soup and a truly indulgent dessert buffet were, as always, contributed by IJC members – a lovely reminder that even as we grow, the heart of the Seder remains shared.

As ever, the ritual materials and Seder plates were beautifully prepared and arranged by our giur class, under Nezka’s thoughtful guidance. It was especially meaningful to see newer candidates learning alongside more experienced participants – a quiet but powerful expression of continuity and belonging.

Thanks - as always - to our Volunteers

A Seder of this scale does not happen by itself. Many thanks are due to all who helped set up, clear away, and attend to the countless small details that make such an evening run smoothly. We are especially grateful to Peter DB, Sarah S and Leslie O for the many hours they dedicated behind the scenes. Their care and commitment helped create an atmosphere that felt not only well organised, but genuinely warm, welcoming and alive.

Rabbi Brian