Seder at St. Pat's reminds Christians of their Jewish roots

YOUNGSTOWN

About 125 members and friends of St. Patrick Church shared in a real taste of a Seder as Rabbi Joseph Schonberger of Temple El Emeth in Liberty led the ritual meal.

The Generations of Faith-sponsored event was Wednesday night in the church hall, 1420 Oak Hill Ave.

Jess McClain, a church member for more than 30 years, arranged the program with Rabbi Schonberger, a friend from Holocaust studies.

“The rabbi leading it lends authenticity,” he said. “I think when you get together like this you see you’re not too different and it promotes understanding.”

Mary Lou Eicher, a church member for some 35 years and a retired teacher and guidance counselor from Cardinal Mooney High School, said she suggested having a Seder some 25 years ago, and the church has had it since then. The idea came out of her world religion class which hosted speakers from various faiths. The late Rabbi Samuel Meyer of Temple El Emeth spoke to her students about Judaism, she recalled.

“I think it adds to your spiritual life,” she said of the event. “It recalls Jewish roots.”

The Rev. Ed Noga, St. Patrick pastor, echoed that sentiment. “I think Christians need to be reminded of their Jewish roots. They need to remember that Jesus was a Jew.”

For the complete story, read Thursday's Vindicator or Vindy.com.