Passover Freedom Celebration

Today is the beginning of Passover at sundown. In my community, myself and my companion pilgrims believe this is a valuable day to celebrate, but not only for its' Hebrew roots, but for its' focus on freedom and liberation. We have worked for several years to author a "Universal Passover Celebration" affirming and acknowledging that there have been and still are many enslaved persons in many locations worldwide. For this reason, we have our current version for sharing with others who would like to celebrate, either this year - as we do on Maundy Thursday, or at any time using this family oriented celebration recognizing the importance of proclaiming, in ritual and ceremonial, the past and ongoing, struggle for freedom.

If you or your friends are interested in a liturgy based on the Seder which is  expanded to include all peoples who have been imprisoned, go to this website ( https://www.facebook.com/groups/StAugustine/ ) and send us a message, or write or call St. Augustine's Episcopal Church, 2920 26th Ave. South, St. Petersburg, Florida  33712 (727.867.6774) so we can make arrangements for you to receive copies.

Below is the opening prayer:

Now in the presence of loved ones and friends,
before us the emblems of festive rejoicing,
we gather for our annual sacred celebration.
With the households of Israel, Africa, Asia, and
many places far and wide, united with those
who have gone before, our elders and young ones,
linking and bonding the past with the future,
we heed once again the divine call to service.
Living our story that is told for all peoples,
whose shining conclusion is yet to unfold,
we gather to observe the night of the Passover.

Shalom