WEST LOS ANGELES, Calif. - Jerome Fogel reflected on Passover traditions with Rabbi Eli Friedman.

In a time of cultural division, Fogel believes the Jewish holiday is a reminder for humanity to unite together.

“When I think about Passover, the first thing I think about is family," Fogel said. "In the Jewish culture, tradition, a meal is a very intimate gathering. It’s a sharing of life and each other."

Rabbi Friedman shared with his synagogue the history of the sacred celebration, which Fogel attended. While anti-Semitic incidents may continue to take place, Rabbi Friedman said that hasn’t stopped the Jewish community in Los Angeles from openly celebrating their faith.

“The involvement of the Jewish community is quite vibrant. Although not everybody considers themselves orthodox or observant, but the involvement of Jews in Judaism here in Los Angeles is very healthy, widespread, it’s enthusiastic, and it’s unique to southern California,” Rabbi Friedman said.

It's unique because Los Angeles happens to be home to the second largest Jewish population in the U.S.

He said while the community is growing, he’s hoping the Passover Seder will also show the world how connected we all are.

“I think unity is a beautiful thing. I think that the Seder, these traditions, the feast give us an opportunity to come in unity,” Fogel said. 

As Fogel sat with his father to learn more about Passover history, Rabbi Friedman said the very nature of the holiday recognizes the triumph over persecution, and so the community should always have reason to remain hopeful.

“The Jewish people have never adjusted themselves according to the whims or according to the tie of anti-Semitism. We’re accustomed to it. We roll with the punches. More importantly, we have our faith and we go about it joyfully and enthusiastically,” said Rabbi Friedman.

Fogel said the Matza is a reminder of not just his cultural roots but the universal significance of freedom.

“Passover is the meta example of human experience. We’re all in slavery and bondage to something. By commemorating the Passover, we are saying I don’t have the answer on my own," he said.

But through community, Fogel said love is the essence of the holiday.