Re: 'Passover questions to ponder,' But Seriously, April 18.

We found Jamie Wayne's Passover column to be trite, clich�©d, not funny and factually inaccurate.

Passover is the most joyful of Jewish holidays. It celebrates freedom, which is basic and precious, yet so taken for granted. The story of a nation redeemed from slavery has resonated with people throughout the ages and has relevance even today.

The Haggadah, the book used to tell the Passover story, urges us to invite "all who are hungry, come in and eat." Strangers are more than welcome and hospitality is extended to all.

We found Wayne's reference to a sexy "shiksa" to be tasteless and sexist. His description of Moses, whose name does not mean saviour, verges on anti-Semitism. His outdated, corny puns don't even pass as second-rate humour. And by the way, Passover started on Saturday evening, not Sunday.

A Passover seder is a warm, meaningful and spiritual event. For 11 years the West Toronto Jewish Community Association has held a community potluck seder, where people of all faiths attend. We extend a heartfelt invitation to Jamie Wayne and anyone else interested in experiencing an authentic, egalitarian Passover seder, to join us next year.

Arlene Anisman and Francine Dick