The Story That Still Frees Us

From the Pastor

Luke 22:15–16 He said to them, ‘I have eagerly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer; for I tell you, I will not eat it until it is fulfilled in the kingdom of God.”

The Story That Still Frees Us

Summary: Passover invites us to remember God’s liberating power—a story shared by Jews and Christians alike—and to reflect on the freedom God still offers today.

Sundown on Saturday, April 12 through sundown on Sunday, April 20, our Jewish siblings will begin their celebration of Passover (Pesach), commemorating God’s deliverance of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. It’s a festival of memory, of liberation, of God’s faithfulness in the face of impossible odds. Families gather around a table for the Seder meal, retelling the Exodus story with prayers, symbolic foods, and songs of hope.

As Christians, we often forget that the story of Exodus is part of our story too. Jesus celebrated Passover. The Last Supper—our Eucharist—was a Passover meal. So when we gather at the altar, we are not only remembering Jesus’ sacrifice, but also God’s long history of hearing the cries of the oppressed and setting people free.

There’s something deeply holy about sitting at a table and remembering together. We do it every Sunday. The Jewish tradition of asking questions during the Seder—“Why is this night different from all other nights?”—reminds us that faith is meant to be passed on, not through dogma, but through storytelling, wonder, and the shared experience of God’s mercy.

This week, take a moment to pray for our Jewish neighbors. Give thanks for the ancient story that still speaks. And maybe ask yourself: What enslaves me? What am I longing to be freed from? Because the God who delivered Israel is still at work—liberating, restoring, and leading us all into new life.

Chag Pesach Sameach—to all who celebrate. May your tables be filled with grace.

Pastor Anny+

The Rev. Dr. Anny Genato+

Rector, St. Augustine of Canterbury Episcopal Church