By the Grace of G‑d
10th of Kislev, 5743 [November 26, 1982]
Brooklyn, N.Y.

To All Participants in the
Chabad Chanukah Dinner
Cleveland, Ohio

Greeting and Blessing:

I take pleasure in extending Chanukah greetings and all good wishes to the distinguished Co-Chairmen and all of you participating in this auspicious occasion.

Although the event is designed in conjunction with a tribute to a person, it is surely intended for the movement which he has the privilege to lead - a movement which has been in the forefront of Jewish life for the past 200 years. Indeed, the 19th of this month of Kislev marks the Geulah Day of Rabbi Schneur Zalman, the Founder of the Chabad movement, as you all know.

The Alter Rebbe had dedicated his life to the revitalization of Torah-true Yiddishkeit among the broad masses of our Jewish people, through the study of Torah that permeates all three intellectual faculties - Chochmoh (Wisdom), Binah (Understanding), Daas (Knowledge) - Chabad, leading to the fulfillment of the Mitzvos with awe of G‑d and love of G‑d, emphasizing that the love of G‑d, love of the Torah and love of fellow Jew are inseparably intertwined. Personifying these qualities, and dedicating his total life to the task of spreading Yiddishkeit permeated with these qualities, and with all the trials and challenges that he faced and overcame, he paved the way for all of us to follow with ease.

It is doubly significant that the Chabad Dinner is taking place in the middle of Chanukah, for Chabad incorporates and reflects the central message of Chanukah, namely, to light up the home, as well as the "outside" with the light of Torah and Mitzvos, as symbolized by the Chanukah Lights and the manner of kindling them, namely, adding lights and increasing their brightness from day to day.

May Hashem continue to bless the work of Chabad in the Cleveland area, and throughout the State, particularly the Chabad House of Cleveland and its ramified activities. And may Hashem bestow His generous blessings on all of you who are active partners and supporters of these vital services and programs.

With prayerful wishes for Hatzlocho, and for a happy and bright Chanukah and a bright always,

With blessing,