2939 —להתפלל בבית הכנסת למרות הסחות הדעת ולהשפיע על אחרים בחום

B"H, 19 Elul, 5714.

Brooklyn.

Shalom u'Vrachah!

I received your letter from Chai Elul and I was pleased to read that you remember your Chassidic lineage, and most importantly, that you maintain Yiddishkeit with Chassidic customs even here in America. As is well known, my revered father-in-law the Rebbe zatzal said that the argument that America is different from the old home is a false claim, as explained at length in the enclosed booklet.

Regarding what you wrote about communal prayer—this is one of the fundamentals. It is self-evident that mundane talk you hear during davening is a great disturbance. However, this does not mean the solution is to pray alone at home; on the contrary, use the influence and warmth that Hashem bestows upon a person to also affect your surroundings so they behave properly in shul, which is a holy place where one must conduct oneself accordingly.

When you speak with a Jew—every Jew has their inner spark—if you speak to them from the heart, ultimately it will have an effect. Then the merit of the many depends on him.

According to your request I will mention you and your children at the holy resting place of my revered father-in-law the Rebbe zatzal. But surely you know the custom is to mention by Jewish name and mother's name; if you write me these names I will gladly do so.

With the approach of the new year I wish you a kesivah vachasimah tovah for a good and sweet year.

With blessings for kesivah vachasimah tovah.

P.S. From the envelope I see that you are secretary of a landsmanshaft; I hope you do not withhold your influence there regarding matters of Torah and mitzvos, and whoever adds is given more.

Summary

The Rebbe teaches not to withdraw from communal prayer due to distractions but instead to use heartfelt words and personal warmth to inspire others toward proper conduct in shul. Maintaining Chassidic traditions strengthens both oneself and one's community.