3580 —בניית בית כנסת מרכזי בשיקאגו, אחדות הקהילה, ושמירת השם

B"H, 23 Sivan, 5715.

Brooklyn.

Havavac"h iy"a nu"n engaged in tzt"z possessing qualities Moreinu HaRav Moshe HaKohen

Shalom u'Vrachah!

I was pleased to see here and receive regards from Anash of Chicago, may G‑d be upon them for life, and to hear about what is happening with them in general and specifically regarding the Shaarei Tefillah Bnei Reuven Nusach HaAri synagogue. In continuation of our conversation: (a) I enjoyed your story about the lot (Lat) that was purchased with the intention of building a synagogue there. The main thing is that it is located in a central area where Jews reside. As is known from the saying of my father-in-law, the Rebbe zatzal, explaining the phrase commonly used by our Sages: "Whoever engages in Torah engages in mitzvah," which seems similar to "studies Torah performs mitzvah." However, for a Jewish man or woman, their involvement in Torah and mitzvot must be like a business. Clearly, a businessman does not sit at home waiting for someone to come offer him a good business deal with honors attached. Rather, since he knows this business is for his benefit and his family's benefit, he actively seeks out business opportunities in markets and streets, foregoing his own honor and comfort and exerting himself both physically and mentally so that the business will run properly and grow over time. Even when he cannot engage directly in commerce, he is preoccupied with planning for tomorrow or later—how best to use even this time as preparation for future success. One requirement is that the business be located where many people from various circles can easily visit and connect. All these points apply to Torah and mitzvot as well; details are explained elsewhere. All the more so when establishing a synagogue—a place where Jews gather to pray to the King of kings, Hakadosh Baruch Hu, and study His Torah—as it says: "With multitudes of people is the King's glory."

(b) In all Jewish communities—and especially in America—the days of Selichot and Tishrei are especially suited to bring Jewish hearts closer to our Father in Heaven and unite hearts among themselves. Therefore every holy matter should utilize this opportunity as much as possible; this affects the entire upcoming year. So even though it is clear that despite all efforts there will not be enough time for your new synagogue building on your purchased lot to be ready by this coming Tishrei, you should energetically try to rent at least a large room or hall near that area so residents can pray there during these auspicious days of Tishrei. Also establish a branch of their Talmud Torah for local children there—this will unite neighborhood residents into becoming worshippers and friends at their own synagogue once it is built successfully; likewise their sons and daughters will study at their own educational institutions. Both matters depend on starting at the beginning of both school year and prayer year: most people continue praying all year where they prayed during Tishrei; educational institutions also begin at this time.

(c) Regarding your report about an offer from another synagogue or study hall to join you in building your synagogue on condition that its name be changed—and you ask my opinion: In my view it is obvious that since your synagogue's name has been known throughout Chicago for decades already, you should not consider changing it at all; it must remain fully intact—the name which has earned honor and praise. To answer their request you may agree to add their name as well—but "Shaarei Tefillah Bnei Reuven" must come first; ideally separated by words like "and synagogue" or "and study hall": i.e., "Shaarei Tefillah Bnei Reuven Nusach HaAri Synagogue—and Synagogue (or Study Hall) Ploni..." May it be G‑d's will that also in your new neighborhood you merit success establishing a chassidic synagogue and study hall from which Ner Mitzvah Torah Or (the candle of mitzvah is Torah light) spreads forth—and especially chassidus teachings and customs—to all surrounding areas.

With blessing and regards to all worshippers, members, and management—foremost among them—may they live.

Summary

The Rebbe teaches that building a central synagogue strengthens community unity when rooted in tradition. Efforts should focus on inclusivity without compromising established identity or values; education and prayer go hand-in-hand as foundations for lasting communal growth.