The Passover Seder is quite possibly the most observed of all Jewish Practices. Jews with little affiliation to their faith find their way to a Seder. Being with family members in an informal home setting, the tradition, 4 cups of wine, Passover Customs and rituals make the Seder a positive experience for all in attendance.

While the "four sons" present at the Seder differ from each other in their reaction to the Seder, they do have one thing in common - they are all present and accounted for. Even the wicked son is there, although taking a rebellious and perhaps disruptive role but active and interested in being Jewish. We then hope that the wicked son will become wise and all in attendance will become Torah observing Jews. Today, however, we have another son: the fifth son. The son who is absent from the Seder service, the son who has no interest in attending, no interest in Torah, mitzvahs, laws and customs and may not even know about the Exodus from Egypt.

This problem presents all Jews, especially parents, with a challenge to prepare before the Seder. The responsibility is to ensure no Jew goes without a seat at a Seder. We should never give up on the fifth son. We should all make an effort to save our children and bring them to our Seder. It is a place where Jews with varied observant backgrounds, experiences and interests are able to connect to one another and strive to develop and deepen their growth in Judaism. With this focus we are all sure to have a Seder that will last and enrich one's life with more meaning and purpose.

Rabbi Steinsaltz in his book We Jews: Who Are We and What Should We Do? Says the Jewish people are a family.  I say we are a team that sticks together, helps one another out and finds that fifth son to pass the rich traditions of Judaism on to and leave no Jew without a seat at the Passover Seder.

About the author:
Alan "Shlomo" Veingrad
Shlomo speaks to corporate and business audiences around the world bringing his inspirational messages of positivism, personal excellence, leadership, team play, and spiritual connection. His charismatic presentation style and post-retirement experience in business development have made him a much sought after speaker by Fortune 500 companies, professional services firms, and owner-managed businesses whose management seeks to lead their organizations by exemplifying a culture of personal and professional achievement blended with a higher purpose. Shlomo also speaks to colleges and universities, sports organizations, and religious groups who are intrigued by the unlikely juxtaposition of his personal story. You can reach Shlomo at Shlomo@ShlomoVeingrad.com