By the Grace of G-dErev Shabbos-Shiro, 5729Brooklyn, N.Y.

Blessing and Greeting:

It is significant that the forthcoming Conference will take place soon after the Yahrzeit of my father-in-law of saintly memory, and following Shabbos-Shiro — which will undoubtedly add special dimension to the Conference.

One of the highlights of the Sedra Beshallach is the Shiro, the Song (after the miraculous Crossing of the Red Sea), including, with particular emphasis, the Song of Miriam the Prophetess, which in turn provides the reason for the Haftorah being the Song of Devorah the Prophetess.

Our Sages of blessed memory declare that G-d preferred to hear the praises uttered by Miriam and the other Jewish women before the praises of the angels!¹

Since every detail in Torah is Torah, and “Torah means 'instruction,'"² the above meaningful details connected with Yetzias Mitzrayim — at the time when the Jewish people became a nation — emphasize the very important role which Jewish women have historically played in regard to the whole destiny of our people. The role of Jewish women, not only in the Jewish home, but also as a vital and indispensable force for the preservation of our Jewish heritage, especially in times of great national events and crises, can be carried out, of course, only when the Jewish women follow the lead and inspiration of the Mothers and Prophetesses of our people, whose inspiration and guidance came from G-d and the Torah.

As you know, my father-in-law of saintly memory has frequently and consistently emphasized this vital role of Jewish women at all times and in all places, especially in the present time, and in this country. Never has the time been riper for carrying out this task of strengthening the foundations of Yiddishkeit, illuminated by the light and inspiration of Chassidus. Indeed, this is the purpose and program of the N’shei uBnos Chabad.

May G-d grant that the Conference be a great step forward in this direction for each and every one of you in particular, and for your collective efforts in general.

With blessing for Hatzlocho in your work, and for happy tidings in all above,

M. Schneerson