The Central Synagogue at Moscow, leading congregation in the Soviet capital, was crowded beyond capacity during Friday night’s Passover services, according to a dispatch received here today from Moscow. The report stated that at least 2,000 worshipers Jammed the synagogue, which has a capacity of between 700 and 800.
After the Passover services, conducted by Chief Rabbi Yehuda Leib Levin, a communal seder was held at the synagogue for about 50 persons. Beyond capacity crowds also attended services at the Maryina Roscha Synagogue in an outlying district of Moscow.
Many Jews in Moscow and in Leningrad had matzoh for this year’s Passover, permission for the baking of matzoh having been granted in Moscow and Leningrad and, apparently, also in Odessa. In many other large Jewish centers, however, such as Kiev, Minsk and Kishinev, reports indicated that there was practically no matzoh at all, aside from very small quantities baked in homes.
On the eve of Passover, Chief Rabbi Israel Brodie, here, received Passover greetings from Moscow’s Chief Rabbi Levin. He received another holiday greeting from Chief Rabbi Moses Rosen, of Rumania.
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