By the Grace of G‑d
8th Day of Chanukah, 5726 [December 26, 1965]
Brooklyn N.Y.

N'Shei Chabad (Manchester Branch)

Blessing and Greeting:

I was pleased to receive your letter of the 23rd of Kislev, reporting on your activities in recent months, and on some of your plans for the future, including also a Chanukah evening. I trust that it was a success in every respect, and that the inspiration of Chanukah will be a lasting one, all the more so since women had a leading part in the miracle of Chanukah.

This year is especially auspicious in view of the fact, that it is the hundredth anniversary of the Histalkus of the Tzemach Tzedek. In this connection, it is well to recall the story which illustrates his interest in, and emphasis on, the education of the young generation. The Tzemach Tzedek, as is well known, was a giant among the giants of the Torah of his time, the recognized authority on Halocho as well as on Chassidus and Kabbolo, as his many works attest. In addition, he was the Manhig of the generation who had, on more than one occasion, been invited by the government in Petersburg for consultations on the Jewish position. It is easy to imagine how very busy he was. Nevertheless, he used to tear himself away from his own studies and writings, and from his many public duties, in order to examine his small grandchildren once a month in order to determine their progress. He also gave them monetary prizes, in order to stimulate them to further accomplishments.

Since we have been told this story in the life of the Tzemach Tzedek, it is clear that it contains a message for each and every one of us. It is that no sacrifice should be too great in our efforts in the cause of Chinuch, especially the education and upbringing of the younger generation.

May every one of you individually, and your group collectively go from strength to strength in your work to spread the light of the Torah and Mitzvoth in an ever growing measure, in accordance with the message and inspiration of the Chanukah lights which we light in growing numbers.

With blessing,