By the Grace of G-d Erev Yud-Tes Kislev, 5734. Brooklyn, N.Y.

Greeting and Blessing:

This year’s Annual Dinner takes place in close proximity of Yud-Tes Kislev, the anniversary of the Geulo of the Alter Rebbe, founder of Chabad. This historic event, as is well known, not only saved his life, but also saved the great spiritual heritage and the Chabad movement which he promulgated.

For the Lubavitcher Yeshivoth, Yud-Tes Kislev is of especial significance, since they are an integral part of this spiritual heritage and a vital link in its preservation. For, having been founded, and being conducted, in the spirit and tradition of the Alter Rebbe, the Lubavitcher Yeshivoth bring the light of Torah and Mitzvoth, permeated with Chasidic inspiration, to Jews in all parts of the world.

The Alter Rebbe’s emphasis on Torah Chinuch is well known. It is further underscored by the fact that he prefaced one of his monumental and profound treatises, Shaar Hayichud vehoEmunoh, with an Introduction entitled, Chinuch Koton, It is based on the verse, "educate the young in his proper way, so that when he grows old he will not depart from it." Such education goes beyond imparting deep Torah knowledge, but calls for permeating the young generation with deep faith in G-d and accentuating in them the three basic qualities of the Jewish soul: love of G-d, love of the Torah and love of Jews, to be translated into action in the daily life, with enthusiasm and joy.

Such is the Chinuch given to the students of the Lubavitcher Yeshivoth, a Chinuch from which they do not depart after leaving the Yeshivo, and which stays with them also when they grow old in years, but remain young in spirit, retaining all the dedication and energy of youth.

Moreover, this Chinuch is one that is not confined to the students themselves, but sets in motion great forces of Torah by way of a "chain reaction," in that the present students become the future teachers and transmitters of our great spiritual heritage from generation to generation.

With the above in mind, surely all friends and supporters of the Lubavitcher Yeshivoth will be stimulated to do their utmost in terms of financial support and personal involvement, as well as to involve others to share in this vital endeavor, especially in the present crucial times.

To be partners in this great endeavor for its own sake, is reward enough. But this also widens the channels to receive the flow of G-d's blessings in all needs, for all of you Who share in this endeavor and your families, both materially and spiritually.

With esteem and blessing for great success

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