Passover – Pesach Festival GuideInsideCONNECTCHABAD NORTH EAST LONDON & ESSEXPesach 5786 – Spring 2026ב״ה
ב״הWELCOMERabbi Aryeh mbe & Devorah SufrinCo-Directors and Head ShluchimChabad Lubavitch NorthEast London & EssexOn Pesach, the Festival of Freedom, we remember our people’s extraordinary journey from slavery to redemption and the timeless lessons that continue to guide and inspire us.This year, we reflect also on our local past, and on the changing landscape of Jewish life here in Essex. We remember Rabbi Aron Dov (A. D.) & Henny Sufrin, who planted the seeds for Chabad’s growth in 1976. With our arrival in 1983, now in our 43rd year, is collectively 50 years of Chabad across Essex.Our community today faces new challenges and new opportunities, and with them comes the call for deeper personal development, stronger Jewish identity, and ever-greater unity. The steady light of Torah and Mitzvot anchors us, strengthening the bonds that bind us with one another.Chabad Essex remains focused on the evolving needs of our community with warmth, dedication, and an open heart. Whether through children’s programs, adult education, pastoral support, or festive communal gatherings, our Chabad Houses strive to be a source of meaning, belonging, and inspiration for every Jew, no matter their background or level of observance. Our mission is to uplift, to empower, and to create spaces where every individual can explore their Yiddishkeit with confidence and joy.We renew our commitment to fostering unity, kindness, and optimism within our homes and wider community. May we all merit to experience the ultimate freedom with the coming of Moshiach, bringing peace and redemption to the entire world.Devorah and I remain profoundly grateful for the relationships, partnerships, and support we have been blessed to build over the years. Your friendship and shared vision help make Essex a place of warmth, connection, and authentic Jewish life. We are honoured to continue serving you and look forward to growing together in the months and years ahead.Wishing you and your family a happy, healthy, and meaningful Pesach. May this season inspire personal renewal and bring peace and blessing to all.Rabbi Aryeh & Devorah Sufrin
The Festival of Pesach [Passover] is the Season of Our Liberation. It comes around every year, not merely as a celebratory reminder of the liberation of our ancestors from Egyptian bondage, but also to inspire us.We are to strive for a greater measure of self-liberation from any limitations and distractions that impede a Jew from their free exercise of Yiddishkeit[Jewish practice] in everyday life.This is the meaning of the highly significant passage in the Haggadah:“In every generation, a Jew should see himself as though he personally has been liberated from Mitzrayim [Egypt].”Such total identification with the spirit of the “Season of Our Liberation” pertains more to the inner self than to outside factors, which are often beyond our control. In our modern lives, there are no genuine external constraints or limitations, thank G-d, to involving ourselves with Jewish causes, especially the most vital cause of Torah education. It is only a matter of setting our goals high enough to meet the challenges and opportunities of these times. Given the will and determination, the opportunities we have are limitless.The vital importance of Toraheducation for the preservation of every Jewish community, indeed for the preservation of our Jewish nation overall, needs no elaboration. But these days of Pesach which then lead on to the Festival of Shavuot [Pentecost] particularly emphasise this eternal truth. Our Sages point out that it was directly because the Jewish children in Egypt received an authentic and wholesome Jewish education that our nation, strong and numerous, was liberated from Egyptian slavery.Similarly, it was only because these very children (and by extension Jewish children of every generation) were appointed as guarantors of the Torah and Mitzvot, that the Torahwas entrusted to our Jewish People.In this spirit, I pray that G-d A-lmighty grants you and yours a true liberation from anxiety and want, both materially and spiritually.A pesach MessageTrusting in G‑dBased on the Rebbe's Teachings3
4Chabad Head OfficeActivity Round-upCurrent Priorities In our News Release, which we released with our last issue of Connect for Tishrei, we informed you, our friends and supporters, that our trustees together with Rabbi & Mrs Sufrin are in the process of re-evaluating our Gants Hill Chabad House and office, as we face a very changing community with all its ramifications.With this has come a fair amount of speculation as to the future role of Chabad Essex and its founders, the Sufrin family.In this update, we wish to share our vision for the future for Chabad across Essex, now in its fifth decade, going forward.The Next Half‑CenturyIt is our intention that Chabad North East London & Essex will dispose of the Chabad House in Gants Hill, giving the charity the opportunity to broaden its horizons and catchment opportunities further into Essex.Having provided seed investment into our now successful branches in Buckhurst Hill, Epping and Southend, we envisage opening further hubs having pinpointed where the Jewish community have moved and are now living. This will include:Y Seeking suitable young Shluchim families to move into identified areas providing services for the local community in the spirit of Chabad across the UK and the world.Y Continuing to support and underpin our current Centres.Y Supporting specific education programmes, including our summer camps, festival programmes and packages provided across Essex through our branches.Y Securing suitable offices from which to operate our Chabad Essex Head Office.Y Continuing to support and provide those in need of specific and specialised counselling services.
5Y Overseeing our Chabad Aid weekly food packaging service in its new premises.Y Supporting the infrastructure of our local Synagogue bodies.Y Supporting our local schools in a practical & advisory way, inspiring the teaching Staff & Students in a continuous Religious leadership role.Y Being the focal point for both the Police and local government with respect to community safety and wellbeing across Essex.Chabad across Essex, led by Rabbi & Mrs Sufrin, will continue to function in an ever increasing manner, ensuring that Jewish life can continue to thrive.The timeline is dependent on many moving factors, and we will keep you informed as the planned changes become a reality.We believe that true & good leadership is about making difficult decisions, which ultimately will be for the greater good of the wider Jewish communities across Essex in the future.Thank you for your past and ongoing support. With you, our partners we can bring about positive change which will enable Chabad to continue fulfilling its leadership role across Essex.Rabbi Aryeh MBE &Mrs Devorah Sufrin, together withDaren Burney & all the Trustees of Chabad North East London & Essex Ltd.
6Chabad Gants HillActivity Round-upChabad Gants Hill also serves as the Head Office of Chabad’s activities and services across Essex.In addition, the Gants Hill Centre plays a very important and integral role to the wider Redbridge community with the varied and different services that it provides.The last six months have been extremely full and busy with regular daily, weekly and monthly activities, which offer its participants lively and relevant events, inspiring each and every one before they leave the building.Education ServicesBites & Insights enjoyed a visit from Councillor Ruth Clark, who shared her decades of experience as a Jewish councillor. The challenges, highs and lows of an ever-changing community.We have continued to host our range of social educational offerings, including Coffee Break for Ladies & Men, Talk & Tea for Solo Ladies, Lunch & Learn, Friday night Shabbat dinner events to warm up those long and cold winter Friday evenings, and many learning opportunities for men and ladies, led by Rabbi & Rebbetzen Sufrin.Rabbi Sufrin delivers his daily 10/10 Shiur, started during COVID and still going strong each weekday, with local participants, as well as followers from across London and as far as Israel, on Facebook Live. Also popular is Rabbi Sufrin’s weekly Wednesday Evening Parsha Class on Zoom.
7Synagogue Services:Shabbat Services continue to inspire their weekly attendees, with soulful prayers, lively singing, and Rabbi Sufrin’s relevant, humorous sermons, always followed by a lovely hot cholent Kiddush and L’chaim– an important time for social interaction and strengthening friendships made at Chabad Gants Hill, a home for all.Home and Vi & John visits:A vital role in cementing Community & Chabad Family relationships is Rabbi Sufrin’s weekly home visits and calls mostly on a Friday or Sunday morning.With his signature blend of wit, years of experience, wisdom and warmth, Rabbi Sufrin will bring comfort and practical support to each encounter, often under the most difficult of life cycle circumstances. It is also an opportunity to lay Tefillin and check on the condition of the family’s Mezuzot if required.Rabbi Sufrin is a regular visitor at the Vi & John Residential Home, supporting residents and their families in times of need.Bar Mitzvah:We were delighted to host the family of Ethan Kissin for his Bar Mitzvah. The Chabad House walls were fully stretched, to accommodate all the friends and family who came to participate in this Simcha. Mazel Tov to Jo, Perry, Bubba Frankie and the whole family. Ethan made us all proud with his excellent delivery of his Bar Mitzvah portion.Rabbi Sufrin has contact on a weekly basis with the students of King Solomon High School who attend our weekly Tefillin Club each Monday. Chabad Aid:Thursday is a hub of activity as our Centre is turned into a ‘production line’ preparing our weekly food packages for delivery to those in need. We always need additional support from volunteers, in particular with drivers to make the confidential deliveries. If you can assist (even periodically), please contact Jacquie at our office 020 8554 1624 or email [email protected].
8Friday Night Meals:Throughout the long winter months, Chabad Gants Hill offers delicious home-made Friday night meals in a warm environment, sharing good company, sing along, games and a message from the Rabbi & Rebbetzin.They can be themed evenings depending on the month and associated celebration or festival of the time.This has been found to be in much demand and an answer to the long cold and dark winter evenings. For many in our community, winter is a lonely time, giving rise to feelings of isolation and disconnection.Chanukah:Chabad throughout Essex has blossomed over its Five decades resulting in the display of ten public Menorahs, with the ceremonies to which thousands participated.The Gants Hill Menorah celebrated its 40th anniversary, since it was first erected on the Gants Hill roundabout. This year it displayed additional illuminated symbols – the numbers 4 & 0, highlighting its special milestone. Please enjoy the full Chanukah report within.Confidential Counselling:Ultimately, Chabad is here to meet the needs of all members of the wider community across London & beyond, regardless of their affiliation or participation in religious events.Living in a fast-changing challenging world, life, financial crisis and mental health issues and often just coping with one’s day to day responsibilities are very real concerns.Rabbi & Mrs. Sufrin, both qualified therapists, continue to be sought after in their respective fields of expertise, caring for those in need from all ages and backgrounds.For further details or to make an appointment, contact Marc at [email protected] or call 020 8554 1624 in confidence.Drop‑in Centre:The Centre’s doors are always open, welcoming the many participants to our activities and services offered. In addition, our front desk is often the first point of contact for people seeking advice, support and practical help in all sorts of matters relating both to Jewish and general life.Your Jewish NeedsWe remain a point of contact for the purchase of Kosher Tefillin and Mezuzot where we offer a checking and replacement service. Rabbi Sufrin is more than happy to make a home visit to assist with the removal for checking and reaffixing of Mezuzotin their correct positions as required by Jewish Law. Please feel free to pop in or to be in touch with our admin office for further details.
Please enter these dates into your diary to ensure that you will be able to join us at one or all of these occasions. We'll publish more information about each event as we get closer to the date.MarchTalk & Tea ..................................................(Solo Ladies).....25th March......10:30amAPRILCommunal Seder.............................................(Family).........1st April......... 6:00pmLunch & Learn ...................................................(Ladies)..... 15th April........12:30pmTalk & Tea ..................................................(Solo Ladies).....29th April........10:30amMAYLunch & Learn ...................................................(Ladies)..... 13th May .........12:30pmTalk & Tea ..................................................(Solo Ladies).....27th May .........10:30amJUNELunch & Learn ...................................................(Ladies)..... 10th June .........12:30pmJULYTalk & Tea ..................................................(Solo Ladies)..... 15th July ..........10:30amDates for Your DiaryTENTETen minutes of inspiration at 10am every weekday Nmorning with Rabbi Aryeh Sufrin MBE• Daily Torah Message• Live on Facebook• All welcome – no previous knowledge necessaryLadies Lunch & Learnwith Rebbetzin Devorah Sufrinat Chabad Gants Hill15th April, 13th May, 10th JuneAll at 12:30pm £6 Donation9
10Chabad Buckhurst HillActivity Round-upOver the past few months, Chabad of Buckhurst Hill has continued to be a hub of Jewish life, connection and community engagement in Buckhurst Hill and the wider West Essex area of the community.Under the dedicated leadership of Rabbi Odom and Henny Brandman, the centre has been busy fostering Jewish learning, social connection and spiritual enrichment for people of all ages and backgrounds.Events for AllThe Centre has hosted a range of fantastic events, with a series of Saturday Night Teen Events, Kid’s Cookery Club, this year centred around the festivals.The regular Shabbat services with lively and welcoming atmosphere and great delicious kiddushes, continue to attract a respectable crowd every week.The Light of ChanukahChanukah, just a couple of months ago saw lots of exciting developments:
11The Buckhurst Hill Menorah has had an upgrade, with new lamps and full LED colour changing strips along the arms,really has made the Menorah look special. Sadly, the events in Bondi (Sydney, Australia) happened before we celebrated the first night here in the UK, but the reaction of our community was to come out in strength to demonstrate our Jewish pride and resilience. All the Menorah lightings had larger than usual turnouts.As Pesach ApproachesPesach is a moment to celebrate our collective journey from constriction to liberation.We invite you to reflect on the timeless themes of the festival: Freedom, Family, Renewal, and Hope. To share the Seder table with loved ones, and pass on traditions that have sustained our people for generations. Pesach calls us to remember our past and to bring the spirit of freedom into our lives today – by opening our hearts, fostering unity, and extending kindness to those around us.May this Pesach be a time of joy, peace and renewed hope. May the lessons of freedom inspire us to build bridges, strengthen our community ties, and bring light and purpose into the months ahead.Wishing you all a Kosher and meaningful Pesach.Rabbi Odom & Henny Brandman
12Chabad EppingActivity Round-upI was asked to write an activity roundup, but I don’t believe that would capture the essence of Epping. Events are beautiful. They foster connection and learning. But they do not fully tell the story of the Epping Jewish Community.Instead, allow me to use these few words to offer you a glimpse into the heart of Epping.Let me tell you about an adorable eight-year-old boy who approached me after a Service, Siddur in hand.“Rabbi,” he said, “can I please borrow this prayer book? I’d love to use it at home.”“Of course,” I replied. “Bring it back with you on Monday when you come to Cheder.”He was so excited to take that precious siddur home. On Monday, he returned it with a sparkle in his eye.“Rabbi, I photocopied some pages so I can keep Davening at home.”A young Jewish boy carving out his own Jewish future. A child already taking ownership of his connection.Just days ago, I watched a volunteer standing on a ladder, carefully cleaning the Shul windows so they would shine for a Bar Mitzvah we are celebrating here in Epping. That is a glimpse into the heart of this place. A thirteen-year-old boy marking his milestone, and the community preparing as though it were their own family Simcha.I think of the young girl who wakes her mother on a Shabbat morning, tugging at her arm: “Take me to Shul.”I think of the man who discovered later in life that he is Jewish and now arrives each Shabbat morning before the service, yearning to learn more about his heritage. About the man in his seventies who said Kaddish for the first time in his life, his voice trembling with every word.I think of the teenager who once hesitated to tell his school friends he was Jewish and now speaks about it with pride.If I had more space, I’d tell you about the teenager who calls me from abroad while I’m putting my children to bed, wanting to learn Torah together. About the eight-year-old who helped his dad put up the Menorah on Epping
13High Street. About the six-year-old girl who, during a quiet moment in the service, asked to sing “Moshiach” — and the entire Shul burst into song.Events are special. But events exist to connect people. And these are the people they connect. These are their stories.The Epping Jewish Community is a place where every individual is treasured. Where children own their Judaism, and elders find their way home. Where milestones are shared. Where we are, quite simply, family.Rabbi Yossi & Rivka Posen
14Gathering together for “Circles”Parents and children together at “Kid’s Club”Making the Sukkah our home on SukkotChabad SouthendActivity Round-upIt’s been three years since we arrived in Southend. At first, everything was one-by-one: a name, a face, another family, a conversation in the street or at the supermarket. Slowly a clearer picture began to emerge: many Jewish families live here, yet some had never really met each other. Then came these past months…The Start of Something NewWe felt a shift even before Rosh Hashanah. In the summer, we had opened “Kid’s Club”. But what began as a summer activity continued afterwards, now meeting every two weeks, with more and more children joining. Parents come together with their children, and friendships grow naturally.At the same time Circles began for men, for women, and mixed gatherings. Not formal classes – just time to sit together, talk and ask questions. Through these events, people are discovering Jewish neighbours they never knew they had, despite living here for years.A Sea Change for SouthendOn Rosh Hashanah many came, some joining a service for the first time in years, others for the first time ever.By Yom Kippur it was clear this was not a “one-off ” but the start of a trend: the beginning of connection. During Sukkot, night after night, the sukkah filled with conversation, introductions and laughter.
15Light & joy as we kindle our MenorahsActivities for MenActivities for WomenSpreading Light in the Streets of Southend Family Chanukah PartyA Connection KindledAs we headed towards the dark winter nights, Southend was far from dull – Chanukah brought even more light.Alongside a large central event, many smaller lightings took place in people’s homes across the city. A car parade with menorahs on the roofs drove through the streets, and people came outside, waiting, smiling and filming. The streets quite literally filled with light and joy.Shabbat – Reflecting & RenewingShabbat has become a regular meeting point around the Shabbat table. People come for the meals, stay to talk, and meet new faces each week.More and more people exchange numbers, make friends and even meet outside our activities. We keep hearing the same sentence: “We didn’t realise there were so many Jews here.”The atmosphere that has formed feels like family – open, warm and welcoming to all. It is very moving to watch a community grow simply because people are happy to find each other.And we are already looking ahead, because it feels like there is still so much more to come.Rabbi Tzvi Birnhack
16Discussion GroupChallah Bake-offChanukah Party at Romford ShulChabad HaveringActivity Round-upBuilding RelationshipsFriends are discovering others who have moved into the area. Chabad is making contact and finding out what interests they may have in building a fledgling community.A number of discussion groups have been held together with Rabbi & Mrs. Sufrin in private homes.Events & GatheringsA very well attended “Challah Bake” was held in Romford & District Synagogue, which attracted additional women. Led by Mrs. Devorah Sufrin, the lessons of Challah were taught together with learning the practical art of making plaited Challot.Having spotted a piano in the main hall, Mrs. Sufrin had all the women singing and dancing to familiar tunes as she played the piano – one of her loves not too many know about!Led by Rabbi Sufrin, who invited the local Mayor and other dignitaries to participate, Chanukah was great fun with the formal Menorah lighting in front of the Havering Town Hall to participate. This was followed by a beautiful Chanukah party in the shul, prepared and sponsored by the Ladies Guild and Board of Management at Romford Synagogue.Looking AheadIn the lead up to Pesach, a discussion group will be held entitled “Maintaining Inspiration for our Pesach Chores”.
Weekly Sidra Shiur“With Chassidic Insights”Every Wednesday evening at 8:15pm via Zoom, with Rabbi Aryeh Sufrin MBENo previous knowledge necessary – men & women welcomeTo receive your weekly Zoom link, contact [email protected]– a time to reflect on Torah teachings –
18Help us grow! We neednew monthly supportersto help us reachour goal.Dear Chabad Aid,I am writing to express my deepest gratitude for the support I have received from you and Chabad. Your kindness and generosity have been a true blessing for me and my family. As we enter 2026, I wanted to take a moment to thank you for everything you do for our community. Your hard work and compassion make such a meaningful difference. Wishing you a wonderful and successful 2026. May this year be filled with health, joy, Love and peace for all of you and us.A. R.The Torah teaches:“Open your hand to your brother, to the poor and to the needy in your land.”Devarim 15:11Our Sages teach that sustaining someone with dignity is one of the highest forms of Tzedakah. Every week through Chabad Aid, we:• Provide fresh fruit and vegetables• Distribute toiletries and essentials• Deliver “home cooked” Shabbat MealsThe ProgrammeTo secure this project long-term, we are looking for committed donors to give:• £20 a month by Standing Order• That means no more constant worry• No more scramblingJust secure, dignified support for those who depend on us.Can You Join our £20‑a‑Month Club?The Rambam teaches that the greatest level of Tzedakah is strengthening someone before they fall. Your £20 per month ensures “home cooked” nutritious meals every week, providing stability for 150 people.This step will allow us to focus fully on growing the number of volunteers and expanding our services to a wider number of people. If this message speaks to you, please get in touch as soon as possible. Together, we can continue to open our hands, and keepthem open. Please contact Jacquie on:020 8554 [email protected] Aid – “Building With Kindness”With Your Support
19Chabad AidUpdate by Russell GreenI have now been working with Chabad Aid for several years. My role involves many different things, from collecting from supermarkets, receiving all the food at the Centre, sorting it all out, getting it ready for the team to come in and pick it.It was just as big a help to me as it is to the people we help, because I needed things to do and I got involved a few years ago.Two of the most important things that make Chabad Aid unique: one is diversity, because we are incredibly inclusive, meaning that we are a Jewish organisation but when I see all the Food Banks that we support, and the thousands of people that benefit, from all sorts of religions and backgrounds, all different situations of people, it is amazing how our reach is so far.Secondly, we uniquely deliver direct to individuals and families. When we arrive at their home and Visit Chabad Aid’s website to find out more about our crucial mission. Consider supporting our vital work by volunteering your time at our kitchens, or by becoming a valued member of our delivery team. Scan the QR code here or visit www.chabadaid.co.uk. Make a difference today!Chabad Aidsee and feel their appreciation, it certainly makes the efforts of our team at Chabad Aid worthwhile.
20Chabad AidLisa Rosen – of blessed memorySpinathonjustgiving.com/page/padelthonSourcing FundsChabad Aid relies entirely on fundraising campaigns and the generosity of our donors, so it’s vital for us to reach as many potential donors as possible. To this end, we introduced our £20‑a‑Month Club, as we seek a stable source of funding to enable the consistent provision of services and feed those in need.Spinathon – 5th October 2025David Lloyd, Chigwell, kindly supports our annual 12-hour Spinathon event each year. This was spearheaded by Russell Green, a key member of the management team of Chabad Aid.Spinathon raised in excess of £16,000 for Chabad Aid in memory of Russell’s sister, Lisa Rosen, who was a member of the David Lloyd.Tragically she passed away after a short 7–week battle with a rare form of cancer. Amazingly, Lisa completed the 12-hour Spinathon for the charity, even after her diagnosis. This was to be one of the last times she would leave her home, before she lost her battle with cancer. She had been a big supporter of Chabad, and Rabbi Sufrin was a big part of her life towards the end.If you would like to help Chabad Aid with a donation in Lisa’s memory, scan the QR code or visit our Just Giving page, which is open for donations at:justgiving.com/page/spinathonPadel for a PurposeCan’t wait for Spinathon 2026? Join Russell’s 12-hour “Padelthon” competition at the David Lloyd Chigwell for Chabad Aid this May.“Every game played helps put food on a family’s table.”
Seder ChecklistThe Seder has fifteen steps overall and you will find a lot of guidance in your Haggadah. To hold a successful Seder, you will need wine (or grape juice), Matzah, bitter herbs for Maror, Charoset, a hard-boiled egg, a chicken neck or shank bone, salt water, a Haggadah and a festive meal menu.The Seder features many biblical and Rabbinical Mitzvot, including eating Matzah and Maror (bitter herbs), drinking four cups of wine, reclining when eating and drinking (to symbolise freedom), and relating the story of the Exodus to our children.The Mitzvot of the SederThere are four main Mitzvot at the Pesach Seder. They are:1 Reciting the Haggadah and telling the story of our ancestors’ Exodus from Egypt.2 Eating Matzah, to recall how the Israelites left Egypt so quickly that they didn’t have time to wait for the dough to rise.3 Eating Maror (bitter herbs), to recall the many years of bitter slavery in Egypt.4 Drinking four cups of wine or grape juice, to celebrate freedom and emancipation.The Pesach Seder21
Pesach [Pesach] spans eight days (seven in Israel), from the 14th–22nd of the Hebrew month of Nissan, which is 2nd April to 9th April this year.The first two days of Pesach are Thursda & Friday, 2nd & 3rd April, while the last two days are Wednesday & Thursda, 8th & 9th April. These are fully-fledged Yom Tov (festival) days. We light Yom Tov candles at night, just as we do for Shabbat, and recite Kiddush over wine at the start of festive meals on both nights and days. We do not go to work, drive, write, or switch electronic devices on or off. We are permitted to cook and to carry outdoors, except on Shabbat.The middle four days of Pesachare called Chol Ha'moed, festive “intermediate days”, and unlike Yom Tov, most forms of work are permitted.Refraining from ChametzWe commemorate the unleavened bread, which the Israelites ate when they left Egypt, by refraining from food containing Chametz (leaven) throughout Pesach. We neither eat—nor even retain in our possession—any Chametz, from the morning of the day before Pesach until the conclusion of the entire eight-day festival.Chametz means leavened grain. This is any food or drink that contains even a trace of wheat, barley, oats, spelt, rye, or their derivatives, which wasn’t guarded from leavening or fermenting. This includes bread, cake, cereal, pasta, and most alcoholic drinks. Processed food and drink is assumed to contain trace amounts of Chametz unless certified as Kosher for Pesach. We work hard to clean our homes in the weeks before Pesach to remove any Chametz.In addition, on the evening of Tuesday31st April, after nightfall, we undertake a ceremonial search of our homes for the last few crumbs of Chametz, before burning it on Wednesday morning.Selling ChametzSince it is impractical to remove everytrace of Chametz, Rabbi Sufrin can arrange to sell your Chametz on your behalf to a non-Jew, from whom he will buy it back again after the festival. For the duration of Pesach, until Rabbi Sufrin buys everything back after the festival ends, you can store the Chametz in closed rooms or cupboards. Contact Rabbi Sufrin to arrange selling your Chametz.MatzahInstead of Chametz, we eat Matzah, a flat unleavened bread. It is a Mitzvah to eat Matzah on the two Seder nights. It is best to use handmade Shmurah Matzah, which has been scrupulously guarded against moisture from the moment it was harvested. You can purchase Shmurah Matzah from Chabad, Rabbi Sufrin or a Kosher shop.The Pesach Festival22
Shabbat HaGadolSaturday 28th March – 10th NissanThe Shabbat preceding Pesach is called Shabbat HaGadol, meaning The Great Sabbath. This recalls how the Israelites prepared a lamb for the Pesach offering four days before the festival, but the Egyptians, for whom the lamb was a deity, did not protest. This was the first great miracle of the Exodus, hence this day is called Shabbat HaGadol.It is customary to recite a large section of the Haggadah after the Minchah prayer . Searching for ChametzTuesday 31st March – 13th NissanOn Tuesday night, after nightfall at 8:06pm, we search for Chametz by the light of a candle. It is customary for a family member to hide ten pieces of Chametz (individually wrapped) around the house to be found in the search.The Chametz is swept into a paper bag using a feather and a wooden spoon (as a dustpan & brush). Before searching for the hidden Chametz, say the blessing below.Then, we tie the bag of Chametz with a string, making sure to store it well out of children’s or pet’s reach. This year, we burn the Chametz before 11:59am on Wednesday 1st April.Remember to sell any other Chametzyou own by contacting Chabad. You can also visit www.chabad.org.uk/111191or scan the QR code shown here to use an online form.ְ ָהָ עֹֹוָלָ ם ֲאֲ �ֶׁש ִ ֶ ר ִקְֿֿד� �ָׁש ָ נּוּ ְּב�ְ ִמִ ְצְ ָתָ יוֵֹהֵ ינּוּ ֶֶמֶלֶ ְךְ ַַא �ָָּתה ְיְ ־ָיָ ֱאֱ ־ֹלָּב �ָ רּוְּךְְו ִִצ �ָּוָ נּוּ ַעַ ל ִּב �ִ עּוּר ָחָ ֵמֵ ץ:Baruch atah A-donai E-loheinu melech ha-olam, asher kida-shanu bemitz-votav ve-tzivanu al bi-ur Chametz.Blessed are You, L‑rd our G‑d, King of the Universe, who has sanctified us with His commandments, and has commanded us concerning the removal of chametz.Y After the search is complete, one should also nullify any other Chametz that may have been overlooked, by making this declaration:“ All leaven, or anything leavened, that is in my possession, which I have neither seen nor removed, and about which I am unaware, should be considered naught and ownerless, as the dust of the earth.”23
Pesach Day‑by‑DayFast of the FirstbornWednesday 1st April – 14th NissanIn the tenth and final plague, the firstborn Egyptians were killed. Just like all the previous plagues, the Children of Israel were unharmed.To express their gratitude, all firstborn males would normally fast on the day before Pesach (Erev Pesach), and fathers of firstborn boys who are under the age of 13 should fast in their stead. However, the usual custom is for the firstborn to exempt themselves from fasting by attending a Siyum, a mini celebration to celebrate the completion of Torah study.For this reason, synagogues usually host a small Siyum after Shacharit(morning prayers) on Erev Pesach, to allow their members to be released from any requirement to fast. Whenever Erev Pesach falls on Shabbat, the fast is held on the Thursday before Pesach. This year (2026), Erev Pesach falls on Wednesday, therefore the Siyum to negate the Fast of the Firstborn, is observed on Wednesday.Erev PesachWednesday 1st April – 14th NissanThis is the last chance to sell any Chametz we own. We burn any remaining Chametz (that has not been sold and secured away) before the beginning of the sixth seasonal hour, at 11:59am.When burning the Chametz, we recite a declaration to nullify the remaining Chametz.Nullifying the ChametzWe annul any remaining traces of Chametz that may have gone unnoticed by saying the following:“All leaven, or anything leavened, that is in my possession, whether I have seen it or not, whether I have observed it or not, whether I have removed it or not, should be considered naught and ownerless, as the dust of the earth.”The original Aramaic text of the Declaration of Anullment (Kol Chamira) may be found in the Haggadah.Following the afternoon Minchahprayers, it is customary to recite the text of the Order of the Pesach Offering, 24
which may be found in the Haggadah. Festival candles are lit at the onset of Yom Tov – see the Shabbat & Yom Tov Candles section on page 37.Pesach Seder NightWednesday 1st April – 14th NissanThe beginning of Passover is marked with the Seder on each of the first two nights of the festival.If using an electric cooker or oven, it must have been switched on at the correct temperature before the start of the festival.If lighting a gas cooker, one uses a flame that has been lit from the onset of the festival. Many people light a 24/48hr Yahrzeit candle before the festival begins, which can also be used to light Thursda night’s festival candles, and Shabbat candles on Friday.First Day PesachThursday 2nd April – 15th NissanPrayers include Hallel and Yaaleh Veyavo, and we begin to pray for dew with Tefilat Tal, which is added to during the Musaf prayer.The Kohanim (priests) bless the congregation with the priestly blessing during the Musaf prayer.We eat a festive lunch meal.We light candles for the second day of Pesach after dark, using an existing flame – see page 37 .Jews living outside Israel then hold a second Seder night, just like the first night of the festival. In Israel, where there is only one day of Yom Tov, the Havdalahis recited on wine. The Havdalah candle and Besamim spices are not used.25
prayers and in Grace-after-Meals for the remainder of Pesach.We eat a festive Shabbat lunch meal.Shabbat ends with the evening service, followed by Havdalah on wine. The Havdalah candle and Besamim spices are used. We count the third night of the Omer.Chol Ha'moedPesach continues with the Intermediate Days, called Chol Ha'moed, between Sunday 5th April and Tuesday 7th April.Last Intermediate Day –Erev Yom TovTuesday 7th April – 20th NissanOn Tuesday, we prepare for Yom Tov, remembering to arrange a flame to remain lit until Wednesday night.We light candles for Yom Tov (the final two days of Pesach), and recite blessing 3.During the evening prayers, we count the 6th day of the Omer.We eat a festive evening meal.Many communities remain awake all night, studying Torah, to commemorate the miracle of the Splitting of the Sea, which occurred dawn on the seventh day of Pesach.7th Day of Pesach (Yom Tov)Wednesday 8th April – 21st NissanTwo Torah scrolls are taken out of the ark. The portion recalling the splitting of the Reed Sea is read.The Kohanim (priests) bless the congregation with the priestly blessing during the Musaf prayer.We eat a festive lunch meal.We count the 7th day of the Omer during the evening prayers.Counting the OmerWe begin counting the Omereach evening for the next forty-nine days, leading up to the festival of Shavuot. This represents daily steps of improving oneself, and gradually ascending to ever higher levels of refinement, to arrive at Mount Sinai, and to accept the wisdom of the Torah on Shavuot.Second Day PesachFriday 3rd April – 16th NissanFull Hallel is recited at the Morning service and two Torah scrolls are taken out of the ark.The Kohanim (priests) bless the congregation with the priestly blessing during the Musaf prayer.We eat a festive lunch meal.The second day of the festival leads into Shabbat. We light candles for Shabbat, using an existing flame – see page 37 .Shabbat Chol Ha'moed PesachFriday 3rd April – 16th NissanWe say Yaaleh Veyavo during the Marivevening prayer and Grace-after-Meals for the remainder of Pesach.During the evening prayers, we count the second day of the Omer.We eat a festive evening meal.Saturday 8th April – 21st NissanThe morning services include twoTorah scrolls taken out of the ark,and the Musaf prayer.Half-Hallel is said each morning, as well as Yaaleh Veyavo during all 26
four cups of wine or grape juice. We share Torah thoughts about the forthcoming Redemption and sing soul-stirring melodies to uplift those present. The feast begins before sunset and continues until after nightfall.Nightfall (see page 37 ) marks the official end of Pesach. Yom Tov (proper) ends with the evening service. We count the eighth day of the Omer.We recite Havdalah on wine. The Havdalah candle and Besamim spices are not used.After PesachAfter the festival ends, one should wait for an hour before eating any Chametzfood that was sold before the festival.This will ensure that Rabbi Sufrin has enough time to buy back all the Chametz on your behalf.Isru ChagFriday 21sth April – 23rd NissanThe day following the festival is known as Isru Chag, meaning “attached to the festival”. It is a day of added happiness and one would be forbidden to undertake a Fast on this day. In the evening, we light Shabbat candles, see page 37 .We light candles for the 8th day of Pesach after dark, using an existing flame, and reciting blessing 2.We eat a festive evening meal.Acharon (Last Day) of Pesach (Yom Tov)Thursday 9th April – 22nd NissanTwo Torah scrolls are taken out of the ark. The Yizkor Memorial Service is recited following the Torah reading.The Kohanim (priests) bless the congregation with the priestly blessing during the Musaf prayer.We eat a festive lunch meal.On this final day of Pesach, the focus turns from the first redemption (leaving Egypt) to the Final Redemption and the era of world peace with the coming of Moshiach (the Messiah).The Chassidic Master, the Baal Shem Tov, taught that we should conclude Pesachwith Moshiach’s Feast, a festive meal to celebrate and hasten the imminent arrival of Moshiach. Thus, we will end the festival of Pesach with the same joy and festivity that one began.Following Minchah, the Afternoon Prayer, we eat Matzah and drink
28indignities and the insecurities of those who suffered during the period of the Holocaust – their freedom taken from them just through hate.We are blessed and we are grateful to the London Borough of Redbridge that we have a Memorial Garden here, initiated by the late Alan Weinberg MBE during his tenure as Mayor. I am also privileged to have been here for most of the Holocaust Memorial Days, since their inception, and have had some part to play.This year as we, sadly, witness an increase in anti-Semitism, it is this event that becomes even more poignant and significant. Where we come together, the younger generations and the older generations, with the leadership of the London Borough of Redbridge, where we have chosen to live and work for decades, it is here that we try and bridge gaps.Together, in this borough, we need to work harder, not by hiding, but by sharing our pride in the bridges across our local community – the Redbridge that we have all loved for decades. My wife and I are in our fifth decade living in this borough, and we choose to do so because there is so much to offer here. Although we are living in a diverse community and things have changed, there is something that we can learn from the “RED” in Redbridge: “R” for Respect, “E” for Education and “D” for Excerpt of Rabbi Sufrin MBE’s speech at the Holocaust Memorial Day ceremony.Let me begin, first of all, by thanking the numerous schools that are joining us here today as we address for this year’s theme: “Bridging Generations”.We welcome to Highlands Primary School, Seven Kings High School, Clore Tikvah, Wohl Ilford Jewish Primary School, King Solomon High School, Cranbrook Primary, Valentines High School, the Chigwell School and Glade Primary.We also want to welcome the Jewish Lads and Girls Brigade, the Royal British Legion, and all those involved in making Holocaust Memorial Day here in Valentines Park the very significant event that it is.It’s raining, it’s windy and it’s cold but it’s nothing in comparison to the The Annual HolocaustMemorial Day Ceremony27th January 2026 – Valentines Park, Ilford
29Does your child attend?Did you know that we have three opportunities for your child to join our Cheder & Bar/Bat Mitzvah Classes each week?Our Chabad Centres offer a safe, stimulating & friendly environment for all Jewish children, regardless of their level of observance, background or affiliation. Call to register for one of our Cheder programmes now:Buckhurst Hill: Mrs Henny Brandman 020 8279 2987Epping Mrs Rivka Posen 079 7418 7526Southend Mrs Mushki Birnhack 075 3464 8062the Diversity this borough enjoys, and we can then restore the “bridge” into Redbridge. There is only one question that remains: are we willing to take the first step to cross over that bridge?In conclusion, may we have the good fortune to bring the “bridge” back into Redbridge, all of us working a little bit harder to make that happen with the fine leadership that we have here.”
30• Who switches them on each evening?• The public ceremonies – is additional permission needed to hold street events?• Who manages all? Are there costs involved, and if so where do the funds come from?From one day to the next, they just seem to appear. Perhaps we don’t ask the “how”, and are just happy to see them each year or even just take it for granted that they will appear? Of course, these are real questions, and all have an answer. Just ask and we will be happy to share; you may even wish to support with practical help and sponsorship.Chanukah Across EssexThis year Chanukah was a tremendous success. The ten Menorahs we erected and their public lighting events attracted thousands of participants. Local dignitaries joined in and spoke eloquently in support of Chabad locally and the Jewish community. All highlighted the shocking massacre that took place on the first night of Chanukah in Bondi Beach, Australia.At the Gants Hill lighting fortieth year milestone, Mrs. Devorah Sufrin made a moving tribute to her first cousin, Rabbi Eli Schlanger, z\"l, who was one of the fifteen holy souls murdered on that night.Year on year, Chabad’s Chanukah programme of events across Essex continues to grow and excite the wider community. But this year surpassed them all – there were lights to be seen everywhere!Bringing Chanukah to LifeThe lead up to Chanukah is always one of excitement as we anticipate the feeling of Jewish pride expressed through our ten public Menorahs illuminating the cold streets of December throughout Essex.As we continue to feel the vibrations of increased anti-Semitism, which have spiraled since the 7th October 2023 massacre, any thought of reducing our efforts are discounted, and even greater effort has to be made.The Chanukah project is intense – consider the following:• Who erects them before Chanukah?• Who dismantles them after Chanukah?• Where are they stored? (the largest one at Gants Hill is 30-feet tall)• How are they transported from storage to each location?• Who maintains them – do they need annual safety checks?• What permissions are necessary on an annual basis?• Who supplies the electricity, and how are they wired up?Spreading Light and HopeChanukah 2025Our Public Menorah Lightings
31The ten Menorahs include Gants Hill, Buckhurst Hill, Chigwell, Fulwell Cross Barkingside, Loughton, Epping, Ongar, Harlow and Havering. Our dedicated Essex Shluchim, Rabbis Sufrin MBE, Brandman, Posen, Birnhack led the Chanukah project with excellent results.Special thanks to Alan & Hadley Grant, Rabbis Mendel & Shimi Muller for their dedicated efforts to assist in this year’s Menorah project success.The feedback that Chabad receives before, during, and after Chanukahis warm and uplifting. The whole communities of Essex are proud and thankful that through Chabad’s Chanukah Project, they feel proud to be Jewish and walking a round without hiding their Jewish identity.This is the modern-day message of Chanukah in real time!
32people. Including some of his family and guests. The house was like Kings Cross Station; people were coming and going. The atmosphere was unbelievable and the Rabbi and his wife were even more special than you could believe. The food was outstanding and Rabbi & Mrs Hecht made me feel like they were close friends, or even long-lost family.On Saturday night we went to the grave of the Rebbe and, again, I was totally blown away by the number of ordinary Jews and ultra-frum Jews. Jews come from all over the world write their personal letter, request blessings and put it on the grave of the Rebbe. Whilst praying to the Rebbe, they ask if he would, as in life, intercede on their behalf.On Sunday night we went to the conference where we saw 5,000+ Chassidic Jews united by their love of Am Yisrael and devotion to the mission of the Rebbe.Chabad is an amazing organisation, and I must finish by saying our Rabbi is just unbelievable. You know wherever you go there is someone running over to the our amazing Rabbi and greeting him.I was privileged to travel with Michael Dobias to New York to celebrate the Chabad Kinus HaShluchim from the minute we arrived in New York. I was totally blown away by Rabbi Sufrin and his organisation. Chabad is absolutely something special, a big, big Jewish club with the only requirement for membership being that you are Jewish.Rabbi Sufrin met us on Thursday evening and showed us the humble abode of the Rebbe and took us around 770. Wherever I went, I was shocked by the friendliness of the people and by how many friends our rabbi has.It was also incredible how the Chabad Chassidim were totally nonjudgmental; Michael Dobias and I absolutely don’t look like Chasidim.Notwithstanding wherever we went they welcomed us and treated us like long lost friends. 770 is Judaism on steroids: everywhere you look there is another Minyan going on. It really was something else. An atmosphere not to be duplicated anywhere.On Friday Rabbi Sufrin took us into the Rebbe’s office and he managed to get us an inside view of where the Rebbe used to sit. Again, there were Jews from all over the world, speaking every language, but all united in the love for Judaism and their fellow Jews.After Shul the Rabbi invited us to his brother-in-law and sister for Friday night dinner. There were about thirty A memorable trip to theKinus HaShluchimMichael Korb
33During our stay in New York we visited the 770 building, the world centre of Chabad Lubavitch, the former home of the Rebbe which has been maintained in its original state. We also spent some time at the grave (the Ohel) of the Rebbe. There was a special spiritual feeling which we experienced being a part of the community and part of the Chabad Movement. Wherever we went we were greeted with kindness, generosity of spirit and a willingness to learn and engage. We felt fully accepted within the Chabad family.Going to the Kinus is an experience which we recommend. It is something unique and special which represents the very best of the Jewish faith and which in spiritual terms cannot be equalled. Words may try to describe it, but there is no substitute for being there in person and taking in the full spiritual experience.At the suggestion of and with the encouragement and support of Rabbi Sufrin we attended the Kinus Conference in New York in November 2025. Before we went, we had a vague idea about what we would see and experience, but the reality was far more impressive than we had expected.The conference is attended by over 6,000 Shluchim from around the world. They work in different countries under different and sometimes difficult circumstances, but what they have in common is a desire, a deep faith and an enthusiasm to spread the teachings of the Torah and Judaism. They are devoted to the cause and are not judgmental: they see the goodness in everyone, all are welcome and everyone is encouraged to be a better person. Their goodness and sincerity come through in their actions.A memorable trip to theKinus HaShluchimMichael Dobias
34that it’s never too late to celebrate who you are and where you come from.Having my Bat Mitzvah at Chabad Gants Hill at 40 years old was honestly such a special experience. It felt a bit surreal doing something traditionally associated with childhood at this stage of life, but in the best possible way. The atmosphere was so welcoming and supportive, and the whole day felt full of joy, connection and genuine celebration.Taking part as an adult made it even more meaningful. It wasn’t about making up for something I’d missed, but about choosing to do it now, with confidence and intention. I came away feeling proud, grateful and deeply connected — to my Jewish identity, to the community, and to myself. It was a beautiful reminder Kelly Beard Comments on herBat Mitzvah at Chabad31st January 2026Mazeltov to...Ethan Kissin and family on his Barmitzvah.Kelly Beard and family on her Batmitzvah.Rabbi Aryeh MBE & Mrs Devorah Sufrin on the engagement of their son Aron Dov to Yam Nagor (of Israel).
36candles on a Saturday night or the second day of a Yom Tov, nor when lighting candles on a Friday when Shabbat follows on from a Yom Tov.Single girls (from about the age of three) light one candle and also recite the blessing(s). A young girl lights before her mother, so that her mother can assist her if necessary.Then, all those lighting candles cover their eyes with their hands when reciting the blessing(s).We begin shabbat each Friday evening by lighting candles. We also light candles on the eve of a Yom Tov (festival). The candles should be lit eighteen minutes before sunset.When Yom Tov follows on from Shabbat or Yom Tov (for example, the second day of a two-day Yom Tov), the candles should be lit after nightfall. On such an occasion, we must also be sure to light the candles from a pre-existing flame, such as a 24hr candle that was lit before Shabbat or the start of Yom Tov.It is customary to give some coins to Tzedakah (charity) before lighting Shabbat or Yom Tov candles. However, one does not handle money on Shabbator Yom Tov. Therefore, one does not give to Tzedakah before lighting Yom TovCandle Lightingfor Yom Tov and ShabbatThis magazine has candle times for Greater London. To find times in your region, scan this QR Code or visit chabad.org/6226.
37Tuesday 31st March .....Search for Chametz................. Search after .....8:06pm...............See page 23Wednesday 1st April....Stop eating Chametz ............... Stop before ....10:53amBurn Chametz..........................Burn before ....11:59amYom Tov Candles.....................Light at............. 7:16pm.....Say Blessing 2 & 4Thursda 2nd April .....Pesach Day 1.............................Light after.......8:26pm....Say Blessing 2 & 4Friday 3rd April ...........Pesach Day 2 & Shabbat Eve ..Light before..... 7:19pm............Say Blessing 1Tuesday 7th April ........Pesach Eve (Last Days)...........Light at............. 7:26pm...........Say Blessing 2Wednesday 8th April...Pesach Day 7 ...........................Light after.......8:37pm...........Say Blessing 2Thursda 9th April ......Pesach Day 8 ............................Ends at.............8:39pmְ ָהָ עֹוֹ ָלָ ם ְ ַאָ ַ ָּתה ְיְ ־ָיָ ֱאֱ ־ֹלֵֹהֵ ינּּו ֶמֶ ֶלֶ ְךָּבָ רּּוְךֶׁש�ֶ ֶהֶ ֱחֱ ָיָ נּּו ְוְ ִקִ �ְְֿיָמָ נּּו ְְוִה ּ ִ ִּגיָעָ נּּו ִִלְְזַמַ ן ַהֶ ַ ֶּזה׃Baruch atah A-donai E-loheinu melech ha-olam, she-heh-cheh-yanu v-kee-y-manu v-hi-gee-anu lizman ha-zeh.Blessed are You, L‑rd our G-d, King of the Universe, who has kept us alive, and has sustained us, and has enabled us to reach this time.4 Additional Festival Blessingְ ָהָ עֹוֹ ָלָ ם, ֲאֲ ֶׁש�ֶ ר ִקִ ְֿד�ָֿׁש�ָ נּּוְ ַאָ ַ ָּתה ְיְ ־ָיָ ֱאֱ ־ֹלֵֹהֵ ינּּו ֶמֶ ֶלֶ ְךָּבָ רּּוְךְְּב ִִמ ְְצָת ָ יו, ְוְ ִצִ ָּוּנּּו ְְלַַהְְדִל ִ יק ֵנֵר ֶׁש�ֶ ל ַׁשָ �ַ ָּבת ְוְ ֶׁש�ֶ ל יֹוֹ ם טֹוֹ ב׃Baruch atah A-donai E-loheinu melech ha-olam, asher kida-shanu bemitz-votav v-tzivanu l-hadlik ner shel shabbat v-shel Yom Tov.Blessed are You, L‑rd our G-d, King of the Universe, who has sanctified us with His commandments, and has commanded us to kindle the light of Shabbat and the festival.3 Shabbat & Festival Blessingְ ָהָ עֹוֹ ָלָ ם, ֲאֲ ֶׁש�ֶ ר ְ ַאָ ַ ָּתה ְיְ ־ָיָ ֱאֱ ־ֹלֵֹהֵ ינּּו ֶמֶ ֶלֶ ְךָּבָ רּּוְךִקִ ְֿד�ָֿׁש�ָ נּּו ְְּב ִִמ ְְצָת ָ יו, ְוְ ִצִ ָּוּנּּו ְְלַַהְְדִל ִ יק ֵנֵר ֶׁש�ֶ ל יֹוֹ ם טֹוֹ ב׃Baruch atah A-donai E-loheinu melech ha-olam, asher kida-shanu bemitz-votav v-tzivanu l-hadlik ner shel Yom Tov.Blessed are You, L‑rd our G-d, King of the Universe, who has sanctified us with His commandments, and has commanded us to kindle the light of the festival.2 Festival Blessingְ ָהָ עֹוֹ ָלָ ם, ֲאֲ ֶׁש�ֶ ר ִקִ ְֿד�ָֿׁש�ָ נּּוְ ַאָ ַ ָּתה ְיְ ־ָיָ ֱאֱ ־ֹלֵֹהֵ ינּּו ֶמֶ ֶלֶ ְךָּבָ רּּוְךְְּב ִִמ ְְצָת ָ יו, ְוְ ִצִ ָּוּנּּו ְְלַַהְְדִל ִ יק ֵנֵר ֶׁש�ֶ ל ַׁשָ �ַ ָּבת ֹקֶֶֹדׁשׁ׃Baruch atah A-donai E-loheinu melech ha-olam, asher kida-shanu bemitz-votav v-tzivanu l-hadlik ner shel shabbat Kodesh.Blessed are You, L‑rd our G-d, King of the Universe, who has sanctified us with His commandments, and has commanded us to kindle the light of the holy Shabbat.1 Shabbat Blessing Candle Times for Pesach 5786 – 2026
38CHABAD’S SUPPORT IN LOCALJEWISH SCHOOLSyear group, and the hunt for the ten plagues around our playground!Recently, we held a special Friday night dinner and Havdalah events, in conjunction with Seed, for all of our families. After Shabbat, we had a brilliant time playing instruments with the Junk Orchestra – I loved the Starting the School Year at WIJPSDaniel Hunter – Chair of GovernorsI am delighted to have been asked to contribute to your magazine and to say that Wohl Ilford Jewish Primary School (WIJPS) continues to go from strength to strength. Beyond the high quality teaching and infrastructure, we are immensely proud of the nurturing, inclusive environment and the varied Jewish and extra-curricular opportunities we provide for all our pupils. Since the start of the academic year, we’ve also celebrated each of the festivals with special activities.On Rosh Hashanah we held a shofar blowing competition, made cards to send to the Jewish Police Association and the whole school enjoyed eating Apple and Honey. On Sukkot, we made model Sukkahs and were delighted to use our own brand new Sukkah to hold Jewish Studies lessons, run family events and eat! As the weather improves again, we also look forward to using this permanent space as a new outdoor classroom area.At Chanukah, there was an amazing turnout at the Chabad public candle-lighting and we enjoyed hearing our brilliant choir sing. On Purim, we made Mishloach Manot and listened to the Megillah in our fancy dress. As we approach Pesach, the children are filled with excitement about the demonstration Seders that we’ll be holding for every
39barrel drums and Rabbi Sufrin had a great time on the “flip-flop-a-phone”!Of course, none of this would be possible without our brilliant teachers and Jewish Studies team. We are also extremely grateful to Rabbi Sufrin, as WIJPS’ Rabbinic Governor and Lead on Ethos, for all of the support he and Rebbetzen Sufrin give to the school and governing body year round.Rabbi Sufrin is a regular visitor to our school, participating in and providing insights during many of the above activities. He also runs “Ask the Rabbi” sessions (a particular favourite of the pupils), joins us for Kabbalat Shabbat and hosts various Shabbatons for our pupils at Chabad Gants Hill, including a recent Friday night dinner for our Year 3 and 4 pupils, which was thoroughly enjoyed by all.We look forward to the continued close partnership with Rabbi Sufrin and Chabad, to provide many more opportunities like this for our children.If you are interested in enrolling your child at WIJPS, please contact: [email protected]. We also run a “Festival Fun” group for babies and pre-schoolers throughout the year, based around the Jewish festivals – anyone is welcome, please also contact the office for more info!Wishing you all Chag Sameach –have a lovely Pesach.King Solomon High SchoolBrian MitchellMondays at King Solomon High School continue to be the highlight of our Chabad week and certainly with the 30 – 40 enthusiastic students participating. We —Rabbi Sufrin and Mr. Brian Mitchell (affectionately known as “Uncle Brian”)—make our weekly visits. Hundreds of Tefillin Mitzvahs have been achieved, as we accumulate the total, week after week. Words of inspiration, cohesiveness and Jewish pride are shared. Each week the students receive a chocolate wafer to make a Brachah on and enjoy.
40Our Chanukah visit includes us distributing home Menorah kits to be used at home. In preparation for Purim this year, Mishloach Manot boxes were distributed, each one appreciated and enjoyed by all of our students.The students are very excited to join this programme during which they listen and learn. Those under Bar Mitzvah eagerly await their opportunity, often asking “Rabbi, when can I start laying Tefillin?” …and you might wonder why we are inspired?We feel privileged to have a close working relationship with the school’s headteacher, Ms. Phillips, together with the programme leads, Mrs. Spurling and Mrs. Marks, whom we thank for organising this special programme.
41“We always get a warm welcome at Chabad which we enjoy. The evening was fun as well enlightening.”“A very enjoyable evening spent with the community. Enjoying a Friday night dinner with family and friends in a truly Jewish environment. An uplifting experience which reminds us of our Jewish values and traditions.”“Going to a Friday night meal is a real as it gets, it’s the only Kosher meaty restaurant on a Friday night. There is NO Kosher restaurant, milky or meaty, open on a Friday night - ONLY Chabad Gants Hill. Being there is more like a Friday night comedy club hosted by Rabbi Sufrin.The food is always exquisite served sizzling hot and their deserts are on par with the top patisseries in London. All over seen by Devorah from start to finish: she is the “Nigella Lawson of Chabad”.Devorah’s catering knowledge is superb; what she doesn’t know about catering isn’t worth knowing. Theonly bad thing about a Chabad Gants Hill Friday night meal is at the end you have to go home. The 4-course meal is reasonably priced.”“I very much enjoyed the Friday night dinner. It’s a lovely way to welcome Shabbat… with a great atmosphere, singing and a very tasty meal. A lovely way to enjoy Friday night.”“Shabbat evening was so lovely. We felt very welcome. It was a pleasure to be there with Rabbi and Mrs.Sufrin and the community.”“We tried our first Friday night dinner at Chabad a few months ago and were immediately hooked. Guests who kept Shabbat for two or twenty-five hours a week are equally welcome. Their age ranges from 7 to 90 plus. The menu is delicious and traditional but varied.This time each course had a fruity theme for Tu Bishvat. There is always an activity to encourage people to think and interact. The table plan is varied. We have met lovely people. This time we talked to a Scotsman and found we had friends in common from our youth movement days.Rabbi Aryeh and Devorah Sufrin helped by Lisa work very hard to provide a wonderful, economical and inspiring Shabbat treat. Thank you also to the cheerful office, security and waitress staff.”Feedback from our Winter Friday Night Shabbat Dinners
42guidance, intense therapy, or help sifting through the minefield of options to find suitable rehabilitation facilities.Mrs Devorah Sufrin, herself a qualified therapist, assesses and signposts these calls. She personally provides some 6-8 hours of therapy sessions at the Centre each week.Rabbi Sufrin MBE, as an established and experienced qualified addictions therapist, responds to all crisis calls, covering some 5-6 therapy hours per week. Some cases result in longer term counselling engagements.Crisis intervention and guidance calls are often the priority call of the day, as they can potentially result in life-altering conditions. Such situations would take precedence over all other matters.If you, or someone you know, would like some support in any areas of life’s challenges, please call the Chabad Gants Hill office on 020-8554-1624 for a confidential conversation. It can certainly bring you one step closer to a degree of calm and tranquillity.For many years, Chabad Gants Hill has served the needs of the wider community through various support and counselling services.Times change, as do the needs of people. The high-voltage chaos of modern society, the fast-moving political landscape, and the instability of world affairs, which are very real in the local scene, all add to the pressures of day-to-day life.Requests for guidance and support, often in times of crisis, continue to pour into our Chabad office almost daily. The challenges vary: sometimes the need is for practical support in the form of food packages and other household items of necessity.Other times, people might need crisis intervention to help them deal with a difficult home relationship, cope with bereavement or just selfcare. Addiction can bring a whole host of necessary interventions, from Counselling & Support Services
44ladies on the guest programme – ladies of all ages, backgrounds and from around the world. The programme mainly took place at the Jewish Children’s Museum, which is situated on Eastern Parkway, on the opposite corner to the iconic 770 – Chabad headquarters and the Rebbe’s Shul. The first event set the scene, with the renowned Rabbi Shais Taub delivering a lecture entitled Bringing Inspiration into Action – where he put forward the idea that the inspiring programme that we were embarking upon would require on-going action to make it meaningful.On Friday, we visited the Ohel – the resting place of the Lubavitcher Rebbe and his father-in-law, the Previous Rebbe – situated in Queens, about a 45-minute drive from Crown Heights. For me, this was probably the highlight of my trip. Chabad.Org describes as follows: “The holy resting place of our righteous forebears have served as spiritual oases. While Jewish law and tradition dictate that a person direct their prayers only to G-d and not to any other entity, the On Wednesday 4th February 2026, I had the privilege of flying to New York with Mrs Sufrin to join the Guest Programme for the International Conference of Shluchos – more commonly referred to as the Kinus.Visiting Crown Heights, Brooklyn, the Chabad Lubavitch World Headquarters, had been high on my ‘wish list’ for some considerable time. I became involved with Chabad in 2017 and had become increasingly fascinated with the teachings of Chabad Chassidus and the Lubavitcher Rebbe. When the opportunity arose to join the Kinus – where some 4,000 Rebbetzins from across the globe would be coming together – I knew that I had to go.The timing of the ladies’ Kinus coincides with the Yahrzeit of the Rebbetzin Chaya Mushka on 22nd Shevat. Of great personal poignancy to me, this date is also the Yahrzeit of my own dear mother – who passed away just one year ago, and this trip was therefore made even more significant for me.We travelled from Heathrow, where we met up with local Rebbetzins from Buckhurst Hill, Loughton and Chigwell who were also attending the Kinus and made the journey together to a very cold, snowy and frozen New York.The guest programme that I was enrolled on commenced on Thursday evening with a Welcome Reception. There were somewhere between 150-200 My trip to the women,s internationalKinus HaShluchosLisa Starr
45Yiddishkeit wherever we find ourselves. We may not all be able to change the world, but we can all make a difference in our small worlds – our own communities, families and workplaces. The Kinus comprised 4000 individual women working in their own corners of the world – in all different sizes of communities, in all different circumstances. When these amazing Shluchos come together, the effect is incredibly powerful. The same with our mitzvot – a small act of kindness to a family member, friend or neighbour – encouraging people to take on just one Mitzvah. We may think our actions are small and insignificant, but the net effect is more powerful than we can ever realise.The love and strength of thousands of women coming together in unity from around the world with the common thread of responding to the Rebbe’s mission to bring Judaism to all corners of the world, is something that I will never forget.resting place of a righteous person is considered hallowed ground, a pace where one’s supplications to the Almighty are heard in the merit of the holy soul connected with this place”. As we approached and entered the main building, you could sense the awe that started to fall over everyone, and this increased as we may our way outside to the resting place where we prayed at the gravesides of the Rebbes, as well as the Rebbetzin Chaya Mushka which is adjacent to the Ohel.The programme included many fascinating lectures – and whilst space does not allow me to go into detail – included a wide range of topics including Tanya, Kashrut, meditation and mindfulness, the Jewish woman and feminism – along with personal and moving accounts from Rebbetzins from Bondi, Venezuela and India. Other visits included a tour of a matza bakery, a mikva, the Rebbe’s house and of course 770 Eastern Parkway.The programme concluded with the Gala Banquet – attended by all 4,000 Shluchos plus guests. It was a time for both joy and sadness – laughter, love and tears – as we listened to the inspiring speakers about their shlucos, including brave and heartbreaking words of the daughter of Rabbi Eli Schlanger in the aftermath of the Bondi tragedy at Chanukah.So, what inspiration did I come away with from Crown Heights and the Kinus that I can put into action? Here is something I learned: We cannot all be Rabbis and Rebbetzins, and neither do we need to be to make a difference. We can however, ALL be Shluchim of the Rebbe – lamplighters to bring kindness and
Talk& TeaFor Solo LadiesAn opportunity to socialise with like-minded women.(a small donation at your discretion is welcomed)25th March 202629th April 202627th May 202615th July 202646On Wednesdays from 10:30am – 11:30am
47from the batch of dough, its unique blessing, and the art of preparing, shaping and baking beautiful Challot.Rabbi Sufrin MBE, shared a thought that connected this unique ladies Mitzvah to David’s dear soul, and how Reena and Katie, David’s beloved family, strengthen his soul’s journey from material earth into the spiritual world by connecting to their special Mitzvah.Being just a few days before Purim, the ladies had the special joy of making a few Hamantaschento take home together with their, now “ready-to-bake”, Challot.May the soul of our dear friend, David ben Menashe z\"l continue to be an inspiring light to Reena and Katie and all of us at Chabad. To mark the “Shloshim” (30-day anniversary) of David Sassoon, Chabad held a ladies “Challah Bake” in memory of his dear soul and life.His dear wife Reena and loving daughter Katie, invited their close friends to join the 30-strong group of ladies for this inspiring event led by Rebbetzin Devorah Sufrin, supported by Lisa Starr.Rebbetzin Sufrin shared the importance of the Mitzvah of Challah, specific to ladies, through which one is able to draw down special blessings for oneself, family and all that one desires. She shared the Mitzvot associated with the preparation, also showing a presentation from Chabad.org on the details of separating “Challah” In Loving memory ofDovid Ben Menashe z\"l SassoonOur Dear Friend
PesachSameachfrom everyone at CSTPesach is a profound annual reminder of family, of tradition and how every Jewish household connects with others, not just in Britain but all over the world. The Haggadah story we tell at our dinner tables is one of persecution and liberation, darkness and light. This year it all feels especially emotional, given what we and our fellow Jews have faced in Britain, Australia, Israel and many other places. The troubles that we have faced since the mass murder attack in Israel on 7 October 2023 have caused deep fear and uncertainty. Here in Britain, terrorism struck a synagogue on Yom Kippur. In Australia, it was a beach at Chanukah. And now, at the next festival, at Pesach, we honour the memories of those who should have been enjoying another seder night with their families but whose absences will instead be felt in the deepest and most cruel way. Despite all of the pain, Jewish life in Britain and many other countries, is not just continuing, but in many ways flourishing, with a determination to stand firm to our values and heritage. At CST, this makes us even more proud of our work and our mission. We are stronger than ever before, with many hundreds of men and women having passed our rigorous training and joining CST. Our strength reflects the courage of our community, because that is where each and every member of CST comes from.CST’s drive is rooted in Community, in Security and in Trust, but it is only ever made possible by the support and participation of British Jews and our communities throughout the UK. We rely on you, your vigilance, reporting, volunteering and financial support. There are many ways you can support CST. You can contribute by becoming a volunteer, reporting antisemitism and suspicious behaviour or by donating to us. From all of us at CST, we wish you and your families a Chag Pesach Sameach; and we hope that when we gather again next year, it is with a better outlook ahead.Community Security Trust is a registered charity in England and Wales (1042391) and Scotland (SC043612)cst.org.uk 24hr National Emergency No. 0800 032 3263London 020 8457 3700 Manchester 0161 792 6666Scan the QR code to report, donate or become a volunteerMARK GARDNER MBECST CHIEF EXECUTIVEConnect is produced by Dove Press Ltd for Chabad Lubavitch Centres North East London & Essex. For more information, visit dovepresspublishing.com or email [email protected]. Copyright © 2026 — Dove Press Ltd. The copyright of articles written by named contributors remains with the original authors. Independently sourced images are credited to the original contributors.Torah Teachings & Prayers are sacred – please treat this publication with careChabad Lubavitch Centres North East London & Essex Ltd Charity No. 1123001 DOVEPRESS