Obama's seder praised by local religious leaders

The traditional Jewish meal served during the holy time of Passover was hosted by Obama in the family dining room of the White House. A spokesman said the administration believes it is the first seder held at the White House hosted by a sitting president.

"I think it's wonderful," said Rabbi Jay Rosenbaum of Temple Israel in Lawrence. "By conducting a seder in the White House, he is sending a message of respect to all peoples of faith, and showing that we need to accept and appreciate each other more and judge each other less."

While Obama was the host, the meal was organized by Eric Lesser, an aide to senior adviser David Axelrod. First lady Michelle Obama and the couple's two daughters, Sasha and Malia, were also there.

"Guests included a small number of family, friends, and staff - many of whom had been present, along with the president, at an impromptu seder in a hotel basement in Pennsylvania during the primaries," the spokesman said.