In the Jewish and Christian faiths, this week is usually a time of big family gatherings. Families and friends collect around a Seder table to tell the story of Passover and at Easter, families meet after Sunday services – or come together throughout the week for Passion Plays – and enjoy brunch and dinner.
Even though we’re all under stay-at-home orders and churches are streaming their services live, families can still dress up and practice their faiths at home, thanks to modern technology.
Passover, begins April 8
Families can join Passover Seder dinners through Zoom meetings. Once you join, materials will be sent in advance of the dinner.
JCC Chicago
JCC Chicago has a list of virtual classes on prepping a Seder meal and family time in advance of Passover. Visit Chi Tribe for a list of live Seders and where to pick up Passover packages in advance.
Camp Ben Frankel Virtual Seder
Families who attended Camp Ben Frankel will know Susan Pearlman, who will host this seder. Everyone is invited to join for a virtual twist on a traditional community seder, with a focus on our local Federation community, including discussion of what the lessons of Passover mean to us today.
Easter, April 12
Check with your local parish or congregation for church-specific services. These are the general services listed by the Chicago-area headquarters for each denomination.
Baptist
Follow the hashtag #BingeWatchABCMC on Facebook or follow the American Baptist Churches of Metro Chicago on Facebook for live services across the area.
Catholic
Services from St. James Chapel are broadcast during weekdays and from Holy Name Cathedral in English, Spanish and Polish.
Lutheran
Join Holy Trinity Lutheran Church for Holy Week services beginning with Maundy Thursday through Easter Sunday.
Methodist
Worshippers can join the Chicago Temple online or by phone (224-501-3412, access code: 404-603-829) Saturday at 5 p.m. or Sunday morning at 9 a.m. or 11 a.m. for live services.
Presbyterian
Services from the Fourth Presbyterian Church on Michigan Ave. begin 7:30 p.m. Thursday and run through the 11 a.m. worship Sunday, all online.
Orthodox Easter, April 19
Greek
Subscribe to the Metropolis of Chicago YouTube channel to view live liturgical services on Fridays and Sundays.
Serbian
Watch live services from Holy Resurrection Serbian Orthodox Cathedral on the church’s Facebook page or YouTube channel.
