By the Grace of G-d
24 Kislev, 5713
Brooklyn 13, N.Y.
Mr. Nelson Harris
185 Church Street
New Haven, Conn.
Greeting and Blessing:
I received your letter of 15 Kislev and was very gratified indeed to read about the Shabbos services that have been inaugurated in your home in a strictly orthodox manner. I trust that it will continue regularly and make steady progress in development. I was particularly pleased to note that among the participants were also young people and teen-age boys. Youth that is attracted to Torah and Mitzvoth is a dynamic force in any such undertaking. Youth is endowed with enthusiasm and energy, and given the right outlet can do a great deal in propagating the idea of the Divine Torah and Divine precepts in ever wider circles.
You mention that no person desires any credit for the accomplishment, and you enumerate some of the people who have planned it, etc. I notice that you failed to mention one particular person who, I understand on good authority, has had no small part in this great undertaking. I refer to Mr. Nelson Harris.
I have instructed the office to send to your congregation ten Sidurim and ten Thillims, as a gift from the Merkos L'Inyonei Chinuch.
I have made a point of sending you the Thillim as well, as you are no doubt familiar with the tradition of saying Thillim every morning after the service and especially on the Sabbath on which the new moon is announced. This tradition was instituted, as you know, by my Father-in-law, of sainted memory, and has received wide acceptance.
Our sages say that G-d's reward is reciprocal. Thus, every effort to bring Jews closer to our Father in heaven, and making peace between them, brings forth G-d's blessings and peace and harmony and happiness.
In connection with the festival of Chanukah I am enclosing herewith a Chanukah Message which I trust you will find interesting and inspiring.
With best wishes for a happy Chanukah,
Cordially,
M. Schneerson
