There is no graduation from Jewish education; The Rebbe Rayatz's self-sacrifice for Jewish education in Communist Russia and its free world application
By the Grace of G-d
Erev Shabbos-Kodesh
Rosh Chodesh Tammuz, 5740
Brooklyn, N. Y.
To the Graduating Students of Yeshiva Achei Tmimim Lubavitch New Haven, Conn.
Greeting and Blessing:
I was pleased to be informed of your graduation on the 4th day of Tammuz, and congratulate each and all of you on your achievements.
As has often been emphasized, a “graduation” and diploma in Torah education does not mean completion of the educational process. It is rather the beginning of a higher level of Torah and Yiddishkeit - for "these are our life and the length of our days," and, like life itself, must continue without interruption, G-d forbid. Indeed, there is the rule that "all things of holiness should be on the upgrade."
Since your graduation is taking place on the day after the 3rd of Tammuz, you surely know that the 3rd of Tammuz is the day on which, 53 years ago, my father-in-law, the Rebbe of saintly memory, was released from prison in Soviet Russia, though his final Geulo came on the 12th of Tammuz, his birthday. These historic dates remind us once again of the total dedication and Mesiras Nefesh of the Baal Hageulo for Torah education and the preservation of Yiddishkeit under the terrible conditions of that cruel regime. This should help everyone appreciate most deeply the blessing of being able to live Jewishly in this country and to encourage other Jews to share in this blessing by doing Mitzvos and spreading Yiddishkeit all around.
I trust you fully appreciate these wonderful opportunities and will continue to go from strength to strength in all matters of Yiddishkeit, Torah and Mitzvos and will always be an inspiring example to all around you.
With blessing for much Hatzlocho in all above,
M. Schneerson
