By the Grace of G‑d
27th of Marcheshvan, 5719 [November 10, 1958]
Brooklyn, N.Y.

Blessing and Greeting;

I received your letter of the 19th of Marcheshvan, with a report about the first meeting of the Neshei in New Haven. I was very pleased to read same, and especially to note the program of study which you have set before you. I was also gratified to see that the ladies participated in the discussion that followed.

I trust that this interest will continue, and even grow. Perhaps it may be advisable to consider the possibility of having the members themselves address the group in rotation, by reading a paper to them, followed by a discussion. Of course, it would be necessary to work out a certain program to give each one ample time to prepare such a paper.

Needless to say, the study of Dinim is very important, and I would suggest that you should provide for the study of the Dinim that are connected with the Festivals in proximity with the particular Festival. For instance, now that we are approaching Chanukah, it would be well to devote one or two sessions for the study of the Dinim connected with Chanukah, similarly in the case of Purim and Pesach that will follow, and so on. This, of course should be in addition to the practical Dinim which should be studied on a steady basis.

With regard to the desire of some members to study the laws of Taharas Hamishpocho, I need hardly emphasize that these laws are most important. Unfortunately, although they are the very basis of family life, and are essential to true happiness and the future of our people as a whole, nevertheless there is a prevalent ignorance of these laws, as a result of which there is also a laxity in their observance, or non-observance altogether. It is also unfortunate that even where these laws are some for there is no room for modesty in regard to laws which are so vital.

You mentioned that your next, session is planned for a date close to the 19th of Kislev. In this connection, I hope that you are in the possession of the English brochure which tells the story of this Day. If not, you can easily obtain it from our office. It would be most appropriate that the highlight of the lecture at that session should be connected with this historic day and its significance and that it should be followed by a discussion on the subject.

Please convey my prayerful wishes to every member of your Group, for success, both in the work of this Group, as well as for G‑d's blessings in every way.

With blessing,
M.Schneerson