Thank you to Esti Michaels and Perel Leah Stolov for organizing an incredibly inspiring, uplifting, and meaningful Yom Iyun in preparation for Pesach! Every student felt the thought and effort that went into the day from the moment she walked into the room and found a personalized folder waiting on her chair.
Each folder contained a carefully curated collection of materials: the day’s schedule, note paper and a pen, index cards for personal additions to our Haggados, discussion questions for our breakout groups, a meaningful story we read together, and a “Food for Thought” packet filled with Pesach insights and recipes contributed by our teachers. These packets truly brought the spirit of Pesach to life—practically, emotionally, and spiritually.
The day began with a powerful and engaging speech by Rabbi Lashak, who spoke about the importance of building our Emunah and Bitachon during the Pesach season. He clearly explained the difference between the two concepts and illustrated how the stories of Yetzias Mitzrayim and Krias Yam Suf are filled with timeless lessons on trusting in Hashem. He left us with a meaningful challenge: come to the Seder prepared with a list of personal moments that show how Hashem looks out for us individually.
Following the speech, we got creative with a hands-on activity: We decorated tambourines and canvases, reflecting the themes of Zman Cheiruseinu (the time of our freedom) and B’zchus Nashim tzidkaniyos nigalu mimitzrayim (in the merit of the righteous Jewish women were we redeemed from Egypt). It was a beautiful way to internalize the message of redemption and female strength that is so central to the story of Pesach.
Next, we watched a moving video by Mr. Charlie Harary, who explored why the Yom Tov is called Pesach. He emphasized that when Hashem “passed over” the homes of the Jewish people during Makas Bechoros (the plague of the firstborn), it was a personal act of love and choice. Hashem wasn’t just saving a nation—He was reaching out to each family and saying, I want you. This idea challenged us to reflect on how we can break through the mental barriers that block us from feeling Hashem’s love.
The day’s messages were brought to life in our small group discussions, where we delved deeper into the ideas from the speeches and the story we read together. Each group explored how Hashem’s care for us plays out and brainstormed ways to bring these realizations into our upcoming Sedarim and daily routines.
To top it all off, we enjoyed a delicious pasta bar and hot soup lunch because nothing says Mesorah Yom Iyun like great food and even better company!
The Yom Iyun left us with not only new insights and a deeper appreciation for Pesach but also a stronger connection to each other and to Hashem. Thank you again to everyone who made this day so memorable and meaningful. We’re ready to enter this Pesach with full hearts and a renewed sense of purpose. ■
Mrs. Ahuva Becher
Mechaneches, Mesorah High School for Girls
