By the Grace of G-d 27th of Iyar, 5713 (May 12th, 1953) Brooklyn 13, N.Y.

My dear Rabbi Jung:

I was gratified that the director of our overseas office in Paris, Rabbi Benjamin Gorodetzky,¹ had an opportunity to confer with you before his return to Europe. It was further gratifying, though not surprising, to hear of the cordial interest which you showed in every phase of our work, and of your sincere desire to further this cause. Knowing of your affinity with the work of my father-in-law of saintly memory, I am certain that you will continue to be a staunch supporter of his work and institutions, and more so than ever.

It is well over 30 years that Lubavitch has enjoyed the fullest confidence and support of the JDC, dating back to the early twenties in Russia, later continuing in Europe, and now extending also to North Africa and the Holy Land. Whether help was needed for agricultural settlements, or vocational training, or for the support of uprooted clergymen, or for religious, educational and cultural institutions - public services rendered by Lubavitch and going back two centuries to the founder of Chabad, who made it part and parcel of the movement - the JDC was always ready and willing to support Lubavitch in its devoted and selfless work in behalf of the Jewish community, and the individual.

The JDC-Lubavitch cooperation has proved of great and practical value to all concerned, the JDC, Lubavitch, and most of all to the beneficiaries: the refugees during their sojourn and after settlement, the educational institutions and students, and the communities at large.

I feel certain, therefore, that you personally, as Chairman of the Cultural Committee of the JDC, your colleagues, and the leadership of the JDC in general, will continue to regard the policy of cooperation between the JDC and Lubavitch as an essential and vital necessity in Jewish life.

In the light of the above, it was rather surprising that there should have been any thought on the part of some JDC administrators to limit the educational work of Lubavitch in Morocco to the larger cities, leaving out of account the more than 60 villages where we were impelled to organize at least a minimum of educational facilities, in view of the appalling lack of same, and the desperate appeals of our brethren there to save their religious heritage.² I am sure that such an attitude on the part of some JDC administrators could have only been a temporary expediency, since it is not compatible with the policy which the JDC has consistently pursued over the years with regard to the work of Lubavitch. I earnestly hope that this omission will be rectified at the earliest possible date.

Another point of utmost importance which has recently caused us concern is connected with contemplated changes in the administration of the European headquarters and overseas branches of the JDC. It is to be hoped most earnestly that care will be taken to safeguard the time honored policy of the JDC towards Lubavitch, so that not only could we maintain our full range of work, but even increase its scope in accordance with the need of the hour.

I am certain that in so far as your position and influence, as Chairman of the Cultural Committee, bear weight, you will do your utmost to cultivate the JDC-Lubavitch cooperation, which has rendered such great service in behalf of our people.

With warmest regards, and blessing,

Cordially yours, 

M. Schneerson