By Lauren Bloomberg

This week’s Torah reading comes from Parashat Chol HaMoed Pesach (Numbers 9:1–14 and Numbers 28:19–25). These passages focus on the observance of Passover, including the laws of Pesach Sheni—the “Second Passover”—which offers a second chance for those who were unable to bring the Passover offering at its designated time.

Pesach Sheni embodies powerful themes of second chances and redemption. It teaches that when individuals miss a significant spiritual opportunity—especially due to circumstances beyond their control—they are still granted a path to reconnect and participate. This message holds profound meaning when considered through the lens of the Holocaust, a time of unimaginable suffering and loss for the Jewish people.

During the Holocaust, millions of Jews were stripped of their rights, dignity, and lives. Practicing Jewish rituals and traditions became nearly impossible within the confines of ghettos and concentration camps. Yet, even amidst this darkness, there were countless acts of spiritual resistance—Jews holding onto their faith, traditions, and humanity in the face of overwhelming adversity. These moments of courage reflect the enduring human spirit and a deep yearning for connection and redemption.

The lesson of Pesach Sheni is that it is never too late to seek renewal. For Holocaust survivors, rebuilding lives and communities demanded extraordinary resilience, faith, and hope. The “second Passover” becomes a metaphor for the broader human capacity to heal, recover, and find meaning after profound trauma and loss.

We invite you to join our community on Sunday, April 27, at noon at the Hohn Auditorium at Roswell Park for our Yom HaShoah Holocaust Remembrance Commemoration. CLICK HERE TO RSVP. Together, we will remember and honor the victims and survivors of the Holocaust. This meaningful gathering offers an opportunity to reflect on the lessons of the past and renew our commitment to combating hatred and intolerance in all its forms. We are honored to welcome Melissa Mott of the Simon Wiesenthal Center as our keynote speaker. She will share her insights on the importance and future of Holocaust education and remembrance.

 Lauren Bloomberg is Director of Buffalo Jewish Federation’s Holocaust Education Resource Organization (HERO).