Passover is one of the most important holidays in the Jewish faith and Rabbi Yaakov Roth, director of the Jewish Heritage Society, Watertown, wants to ensure that soldiers at Fort Drum have a place to celebrate it.

"Typically, the Passover Seder is celebrated with family," he said.

However, many soldiers are unable to visit their families and because of that Rabbi Roth is hosting Seders at his Watertown home on the first two nights of Passover. The Seders will begin at 9:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday and will last until 1 or 2 a.m.

Passover commemorates the deliverance of the Jewish people from their slavery in Egypt. The holiday lasts for eight days, with ceremonies on the first two and last two nights, according to Rabbi Roth. This year Passover begins at sundown Saturday and lasts until April 27.

The Seder is the traditional feast that celebrates the first night of the holiday.

Rabbi Roth expects about 25 people to attend the Seder, all of whom are soldiers or their families. However, he said everyone is welcome to attend.

"Anybody who wants to come, we'll make room somehow," Rabbi Roth said.

In addition to Passover, the rabbi also hosts celebrations for all other Jewish holidays and the weekly Sabbath on Fridays.

He began holding the observances three years ago and said six to eight soldiers and their families regularly attend the events.

Rabbi Roth said the celebrations help soldiers feel more at home and give them a sense of family in the area.

He also said maintaining religious faith is particularly important for those in the military.

"When you're out there, you really reach for God on the battlefield," he said.

For more information on the Seders call Rabbi Roth at 777-8406 before 7 p.m. Friday.