FORTY-FIVE people enjoyed a Passover meal last Thursday week at Bere Alston United Church.

The rituals were all followed as they have been in the Jewish community for more than 3,000 years, but participants also enjoyed a wonderful meal of Turkish lamb stew followed by a selection of desserts, all made without raising agents.

There was a spare place set for the prophet Elijah because Jews believe he will come during Passover to proclaim the Messiah.

The evening began by the children searching for and destroying any bread containing yeast as this is forbidden at the meal.

Each table had a matriarch to minister to the needs of the people on her table and various children put questions to Dorinda Paddon-Hall, who led the proceedings.

Through these questions the meaning of the Passover meal was explained.

The meal finished by the celebration of holy communion as this Christian ritual is based on the Passover meal. The fascinating insight into Jewish life and history was greatly enjoyed by all.