By the grace of G-d15th of Av, 5738Brooklyn, N.Y.

Greeting and Blessing:

I duly received your letter, and many thanks.

To reiterate in writing what was conveyed to you personally when you were here:

The main problem is the immediate danger in which many Jews find themselves - those already now involved and those about to be involved in T. M. and similar programs connected with Avodah Zarah. Hence it is clear that the first action should be directed toward saving them from this danger without delay, since every day is important in this situation.

Accordingly, among the ways and means to achieve this end, the first step should be that everyone who already has the professional authority to treat such patients, should make it his special interest to offer his services in the abovementioned techniques in a kosher manner; and should see to it, personally and through other channels, that his use of the said methods of treatment is publicised and made widely known. At the same time he should use his influence with other physicians in this field that they, too, should become actively involved in these techniques for patients who want to avail themselves of this kind of treatment.

As a follow-up to the above, it would be highly desirable that these physicians maintain contact among themselves for the purpose of mutual consultation, cooperation, encouragement, etc.

As for an intensive research program in the said techniques, the creation of a central institute, and similar projects - these are certainly very desirable and necessary; but such undertakings usually require preparation and long time-consuming efforts (such as the collection of material and case reports from those already practicing these methods, and from future practitioners; researching the published literature on the subject; consulting with renowned experts, with the proper approach to each one individually, etc.)

Clearly, all this cannot be done hastily (also not to antagonize some experts etc.); it can only be done slowly and painstakingly, step by step, requiring a great deal of work caution and time.

This is why I offered the abovementioned practical suggestion to cope with the immediate danger for it can be implemented immediately, since time is of the essence.

With blessing,

M. Schneerson

P. S. It would be well if you could take time out to discuss the matter with Dr. (Sholom Zeev - Seymour W.) Applebaum, M. D., formerly of L.A. and presently in Kew Gardens, N.Y., who is aIso in this field. He has been corresponding with me.

It would also be well to get in touch and enlist the cooperation of the Association of Orthodox Jewish Scientists - National Office: 116 E. 27th St., NYC 10016. (Their Annual Convention is scheduled for next week).

Also with Rabbi Avrohom Shemtov of Philadelphia, Pa., with whom our Secretariat has discussed the problem.