Elul 24, 5703 September 24, 1943

Dear Mr. Hurwitz

Knowing of your interest in all Jewish religious matters we are taking the liberty of suggesting to you and your brother to commemorate the name of your dear mother. Being acquainted with the work of the Merkos L'Inyonei Chinuch you are surely acquainted with the various Torah-true publications issued by our office. Among them are the two publications, Sifreinu Volumes I and V, the famous texts for the teaching of Hebrew and religion. Of the Sifreinu texts there remain three volumes which have not been published and for whose publication the Talmud Torahs and Hebrew pedagogues have been constantly clamoring for. All these books have been vitally necessary to the Chinuch institutions of the country.

The cost of printing varies according to the size and amount of pages from $300-$700. The individual who bears these expenses has the right to have it printed in his own name or in the memory of any dear departed one.

May we therefore suggest that you print in the memory of your dear mother one of these publications. In it you will be able to include such facts as your mother's name, date of Jahrzeit (anniversary of death) and a mention of the fact that it is being printed in her name. By doing this you will not only accomplish something great for the general field of Jewish education but would also, at the same time, honor the name of your beloved mother. There could be no greater zchus for her departed soul than by benefiting the students of Torah and religion with the use of such a book.

It is said that in the Month of Elul one must be more zealous about the commandment of charity. The Rambam (Maimonides - Laws of Repentance 3:4) states that during the Ten Days of Repentance it is the duty of all Jews to be more conscientious and more observant than they are during the entire year.

Hence, if the month of Elul should bear as special inducement in the matter of ordinary charity where the recipient derives only a temporary benefit, how much more so should it be a fitting time for lasting charity as in this case, where the children would benefit from your generosity not merely curing their entire lifetime but also in the world to come!

With best wishes for a Happy and Prosperous New Year and awaiting your early communication, we remain

Yours with Torah greetings,

Rabbi Mendel Schneerson 

Chairman, Executive Committee

P.S. A similar letter was sent to your brother.