Preparing for the Seder

The inspiration for this event came from an article on leading a Seder by Stan Kellner with Pam Woody from Thriving Family magazine.  You can see their online instructions to see where I got the bulk of what we did.   Below is Stan Kellner's preparation instructions:

Abby enjoyed setting out all our small pillows for us to sit on.

Preparation for the Seder

After all leaven has been removed from the house, the traditional Seder begins just after sundown as the mother lights the candles and recites a blessing. Throughout the meal, the family maintains a posture of reclining; using pillows or cushions to lean against.

A list of basic Seder elements includes:

For each individual:

1 2 parsley sprigs

2 1 tablespoon of charoset

3 wine/grape juice — 4 servings of 3 oz. each

4 saltwater — 1 bowl per 4-5 people

5 ½ teaspoon fresh horseradish (bitter)

6 ¼ square matzah (available in most grocery stores in the kosher or ethnic food section — use plain style)

Elijah's place:

Same as the "individual" amounts with the exception that only one serving of wine or juice is poured and left next to the place setting for the duration of the ceremony.

For the leader's use:

1 2 white candles and candlesticks with matches

2 1 bowl of saltwater

3 1 lamb bone with no meat, roasted in oven until brown

4 3 whole squares of matzah (unleavened bread) and 4 napkins

5 1 roasted egg

6 1 bowl of clear water and a hand towel

7 1 pillow or cushion for reclining

8 1 small reward, such as a small toy or piece of candy

9 vegetable (optional)

http://www.thrivingfamily.com/Features/Magazine/2012/from-the-passover-lamb-to-the-lamb-of-god.aspx