By the Grace of G-d 15th of Av, 5746 Brooklyn, N. Y.

Greeting and Blessing:

I extend prayerful wishes to the distinguished guests and all participants in this memorable event. I am confident that the occasion will be a successful and productive one in every respect, particularly in terms of Chochma (wisdom), Bina (understanding), and Da'at (knowledge) - the acrostic of חב"ד (ChaBaD).

The three components of "ChaBaD" are essentially intellectual concepts, but they can be truly meaningful only if they are translated into everyday conduct, in which the school of thought and the way of life are in complete harmony. This, basically, is what Chabad is all about. It both teaches and shows the way by example how to implement the wisdom and holiness of Torah in the day to day living - not merely during those moments, or any special day in the week or in the year, which are assigned to prayer and other religious observances, but in all aspects of the everyday life, including the so-called "secular” domain of business and other inter-human relations.

It is in the said frame of reference that the Torah declares: "(Your faithful observance of the Divine commandments) is your wisdom and understanding in the sight of the nations” (Deut. 4:6).

The Jewish community in Brazil enjoys freedom of worship and opportunity, under a government that is supportive of all its inhabitants, both materially and spiritually. Thus, having reached this auspicious milestone, Beit Chabad of Brazil will surely continue to grow from strength to strength in all good things, always aware that growth is the sign of life.

It is significant that the event is taking place on the 18th of Elul, the birthday of the two great luminaries, the Baal Shem Tov - founder of general Chasidut, and of his spiritual disciple and successor - the Alter Rebbe, author of the Tanya and Shulchan Aruch, and founder of the Chabad movement.

I am confident that all friends of Beit Chabad, and of Torah in general, will take the fullest advantage of the present Bar-Mitzva celebration to support and expand these vital activities.

Wishing you all a good and sweet New Year,

With esteem and 

blessing,