A Word From The Rabbi
Dear Friend,
There are many methods of educating, or passing on a message. Some teachers preach, others speak inspiring words, and then you have the creative people who use hands-on methods. All these are excellent for transmitting information. But when it comes to teaching morality, teaching a way of life, none of these methods are strong enough. The Rebbe changed many lives, but not by preaching and not by lecturing. He was simply a living example. His love for each and every Jew and human being, and his self-sacrifice for the ideals of Judaism inspired a whole generation.
This Shabbos will mark the 24th Yahrzeit (anniversary of passing) of the Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson of righteous memory. The day of passing of a holy tzadik is an auspicious day to reflect and bond with the tzadik's soul and to ask the tzadik to intercede on High on our behalf. Therefore, the day of the Rebbe's passing, is an opportune time to pray at the Ohel, the Rebbe's resting place in Queens.
I will be at the Ohel together with some tens of thousands of other people from around the world and I would like to pray for you as well at the Rebbe's "Ohel." If you send me your name and mother's name (preferably the Hebrew or Yiddish names), and those of anyone else you would like me to mention, I would be glad to have them in mind as well. If there's a specific need you would like me to pray for, please mention it as well - you can send the names to me by responding to this email. May all our prayers be fulfilled.
The Rebbe and his teachings are the inspiration to our Chabad Center, as well as the thousands of other such centers around the world. He single handedly inspired young Chabad-Lubavitch rabbis and their families to go out and dedicate their lives to Jewish outreach, connecting with others from all backgrounds and levels of observance.
The Rebbe showed us all insisting that each and every one of us is an equal and integral part of Hashem's beloved people. He taught love and non-judgmental caring for each and every individual. The spirit of unity that you find here at Chabad is due to his instruction and teachings.
May we continue to be inspired and uplifted by his guidance and teachings. And may we merit the fulfillment of his life long mission - to see the coming of the righteous Moshiach NOW!
Wishing you a successful week,
Rabbi Yudy Shemtov
Senior Rabbi/Executive Director