By the Grace of G-dErev Shabbos Hagodol, 5736Brooklyn, N.Y.

Blessing and Greeting

In answer to many inquiries — inasmuch as the coming Shabbos is called Shabbos Hagodol (the ‘great’ Shabbos) it is understood that the Eve of Shabbos is also ‘great’ in all aspects. This includes also its conclusion, when we kindle the lights of the holy Shabbos.

Even more so, it is the major aspect of the day because the Kindling of the Lights is associated with and a cause for the whole of Torah and Mitzvos, as our Sages explain, according to the verse “For a Mitzvah is a candle and the Torah is light.”

Certainly, therefore, all the participants in the ‘Candle Lighting Campaign’ should intensify their efforts with increasing zest and zeal, in connection with Shabbos Hagodol, applying this also to the 'Lights of Yomtov' which follows.

May G-d Almighty cause the Mazal of everyone to shine, in all that is needed for them, their families and parents, may they prosper.

And, in a timely sense, you should be blessed, together with all the Jewish people, for a Kosher and Happy Pessach.

With blessing for much success in all the above and for a Happy and Kosher Pessach,

/Signed/ Menachem Schneerson