Led by Rabbi Joshua Corber, the new Director of JACS, the Third Seder brought together more than 50 people for a communal, Seder-inspired evening focused on addiction, recovery, and spiritual liberation.
From the moment guests arrived, there was a vibrant energy in the room. People mingled, connected, and filled the space with warm conversation—there wasn’t a moment of awkward silence. It was clear that everyone was genuinely glad to be there.
Rabbi Corber opened the evening with the familiar words of Ma Nishtana, inviting everyone to join in. After some brief housekeeping, he shared JACS’ mission: to educate and support Jewish individuals facing addiction, and to connect them with their community and spiritual roots.
How was this Seder different from other Seders?
At other Seders, we drink wine or grape juice. Tonight, only grape juice was served.
At other Seders, the conversation may drift to the Haggadah, religion, or politics. At the Third Seder, we spoke of recovery, freedom, and healing.
At other Seders, we imagine ourselves as if we had been freed from slavery. At the Third Seder, we had among us freed slaves.
Together, participants read selections from the Twerski Haggadah, sharing reflections on the passages that resonated most. One theme that stood out was the paradox of Ha Lachma Anya—the bread of affliction that is also the bread of freedom.
Before dinner, Rabbi Corber led participants in spilling ten drops for those still sick and suffering. Everyone benschted together, and read some of Rabbi Twerski’s insights on Hallel and its deep connections to the recovery journey.
By the end of the night, something powerful had been built—a collaborative framework for a Jewish recovery community in Vancouver.
The Second Third Seder
If you missed the Third Seder, or if you attended and want to continue the conversation, you’re invited to the Second Third Seder held on Pesach Sheni, the biblical holiday for those who couldn’t celebrate Passover at its appointed time.
We'll take a closer look at some of the material covered at the Third Seder, and create meaningful conversations about addiction and recovery.
As with the Third Seder, the Second Third Seder is open to all. Whether you are in recovery, supporting a loved one, or simply interested in the conversation, you are welcome. Come as you are—no judgment, just community.