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Editorial: Holidays' deeper meanings resonate during tough times

The Passover Seder typically begins with the blessing over the wine and the washing of hands - so apropos this year. It typically ends with the Hebrew phrase "L'shana haba-a bi-Y'rushalayim," meaning "Next year in Jerusalem."

Tonight, however, when Jews across the suburbs and the country conclude this ritual-filled holiday dinner to recall the Exodus from slavery in Egypt, they may be tempted to add, simply, "Next year, together."

The coronavirus pandemic has closed schools, shuttered businesses and darkened stadiums and stages. It has also had a profound effect on this month's religious holidays: Passover, which starts at sundown tonight; Easter, which arrives Sunday; and Ramadan, which begins the evening of April 23.

As a story Sunday by our Madhu Krishnamurthy points out, social distancing and a statewide ban on larger gatherings will drastically reshape the way we observe and mark these holidays.

Instead of seders with extended family crowded around a dinner table, Jews will be celebrating with just those living with them - and perhaps via Zoom with those who are not.

Instead of filling pews for Easter services at church and then gathering for family-filled brunches or dinners, Christians will livestream services and mark this important holiday at home.

And instead of nightly congregational worship and the communal fast-breaking meals of Ramadan, Muslims will pray at home and focus on self-improvement.

We know the importance of staying apart to slow the spread of the virus. We know that giving up the gatherings that we love is a price we must pay for the health of our families, our neighbors, our nation. We know we must be grateful for those who remain healthy and do whatever we can to protect vital resources for those who need them most.

But while we lament the loss this year of treasured traditions, we also pause to remember the meanings of the religious holidays - and how they resonate a little more deeply in these troubled times.

Passover, for example, mixes the bitter with the sweet as it tells a story of freedom and hope.

Easter commemorates resurrection and faith.

Ramadan emphasizes charity and self-reflection, and those qualities, we know, are needed now more than ever.

We may celebrate different holidays this month, but we can all unite in our prayers and wishes for healing those who are afflicted with COVID-19 and protection for those who help to fight it, for comfort to those grieving unspeakable losses and strength for leaders and scientists working toward a better day.

Next year, we hope, together.

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