By the Grace of G-d 19th of Teves, 5739 Brooklyn, N.Y.

This is to acknowledge receipt of your letter of Jan. 8th, with enclosures.

I was, indeed, gratified to read about the successful lectures on Taharas Hamishpocho, which you had arranged in your community, in which one of our Lubavitch ladies participated, and in whose honor a contribution was enclosed to further the work of Lubavitch.

There is no need to emphasize to you that "the essential thing is the deed." Hence, I am confident that the lectures will be followed up by further appropriate activities to strengthen and spread the actual observance of Taharas Hamishpocho in the fullest measure.

It is only right and proper, and to be expected, that the movement of "Young Israel," and each and all affiliated congregations should take a leading and energetic role in strengthening Yiddishkeit in general, and Taharas Hamishpochoh in particular - as the name "Young Israel" implies. For, as you know, a name in Jewish life is highly significant, to the extent that it is an important factor in Halacha, not to mention the Aggadah, and certainly as it is emphasized by the Baal Shem Tov that "the name of each thing in the Holy Tongue is directly connected with its existence and vitality" (Shaar Hayichud Vchaemunah. chp. 1).

"Youth" is associated with energy, enthusiasm and vitality. Thus, one who is identified with "Young Israel" is expected to display these qualities in regard to all that is sacred to Am Yisroel and Toras Yisroel. How much more so in regard to those who are the spiritual leaders and Rabbonim of the Movement. And, needless to add, however satisfactory the spiritual level, there is always room for improvement in all matters of goodness and holiness, Torah and Mitzvoth, which are infinite, being derived from, and connected with, the Ein Sof.

While we must be mindful of the Rabbinic imperative not to weigh the importance of various Mitzvos, we do have Mitzvos that are related to בין אדם למקום and those that are more directly related to בין אדם לחברו , though, of course, the latter are also בין אדם למקום , since all Mitzvos are Divine imperatives. Yet, it can be rightly said that of all Mitzvos, the observance of Taharas Hamishpocho, more than any other, directly impacts the physical and spiritual well-being of children and all future progeny. There is surely no need to elaborate to you on this subject, though it is one which cannot be overemphasized.

Wishing you and your congregation much Hatzlocho

With esteem and blessing,