Jewish Inmates Can Observe Passover

Jewish inmates in the Los Angeles County Jail system will have the opportunity to celebrate Passover, the holiday marking the ancient Hebrews’ deliverance from the Egyptians, during special services at the end of this month, the Sheriff’s Department announced Friday.

Rabbi Martin Ryback will conduct services Friday at the Men’s Central Jail for inmates housed at Central Jail and Biscaluz Center, at the Sybil Brand Institute on March 29 for women inmates, and at the North County Correctional Facility for inmates of Pitchess Honor Rancho, also March 29.

Following the services, inmates will partake in the traditional Seder meal.

Some of the items served will be grape juice, gefilte fish, hard-boiled eggs, chicken, matzo ball soup and fruit.

“The fact that a Jewish inmate is in custody will not affect his or her ability to observe the ancient Jewish holiday of Passover,” Sheriff Sherman Block said in a written statement.