Kids Can Hand-Make Passover Matza at Class

Perhaps you thought matza always came in perfectly square pieces in perfectly square boxes.

Nope. Back in the day, it was hand-made and round, the work of human hands. 

A Niles Jewish congregation is letting kids make it, hands on, the old-fashioned way in its Model Matza Bakery on March 14 at 5 p.m. 

"Each participant will begin with stalks of wheat which are winnowed and then ground, the drawing of special well-water and finally, donning the full Matzah-Baker-Master Regalia – hat, apron, floury face and all, will bake a spectacular Matzah!," writes Rabbi Eliezer Hershkovich, associate director of Chabad & F.R.E.E. of Niles.

The event goes hand in hand with the happy bustle in Jewish households to prepare for the holiday, by house cleaning, Seder preparation and shopping, he said. 

Matza plays a key role in the understanding of the holiday, commemorating the haste in which the Israelites left Egypt in ancient times, not allowing enough time for their dough to rise--resulting in the unleavened Matza.

The March 14 event is sponsored by Chabad  & F.R.E.E. ‘s Jewish Youth Zone, and is designed to give children a hands-on educational journey exploring the history and significance of Passover and Matzah, Hershkovich said.  

“The Matza Bakery provides children with a very fun experience but also helps develop a profound appreciation for the holiday. Today, more than ever perhaps, parents appreciate opportunities like this to share their Jewish heritage and tradition – our faith, with the next generation,” he added. The event also includes a kosher pizza dinner. 

IF YOU GO

The Model Matza Bakery will take place on Thursday March 14th 5-6:30 pm at the Newly Renovated Jewish Center & Synagogue Chabad & FREE of Niles 9401 Margail, Des Plaines, $10 per child. RSVP:chabad@chabadandfree.com

More info: www.chabadandfree.com/passover

Contact:  Rabbi Eliezer Hershkovich 224-392-4442