3590 —חידוש חוזה כרב ותפקיד מנהיג קהילה אמיתי

B"H, 29 Sivan, 5715.

Brooklyn.

Haraha"ch iy"a nu"n oseik b'Tz"tz Moha"r Yitzchak Zalman Poizner

Shalom u'Vrachah!

In response to your letter from Monday, bringing good news that by a large majority your contract was renewed in your community. May it be G-d's will that this be at an auspicious and successful time, and may you succeed in being the mara d'asra as explained by our master the Alter Rebbe—that it should be in the literal sense: the true authority of that place. Use this authority to make the place one of Torah and mitzvah illuminated by the light within Torah—namely, Chassidus—its guidance and customs.

Since this is demanded of you, you have already been granted the powers for it as well as the ability to actualize them. And all this should be done in the ways of Torah which are pleasant ways—and even its paths are peace. It is understood that also in your case applies the verse "and from your own flesh do not hide yourself," which relates to the three pillars: Torah; avodah (in our days meaning service of the heart, as explained by our master—the Alter Rebbe—with all one's being and within one's being); and gemilus chasadim (whose essence is charity and kindness founded on Ahavas Yisrael), upon which both the great world and the small world—that is, man—stand.

With blessings for success in all of the above.

Summary

The Rebbe teaches that true leadership means using one's position to spread Torah, mitzvos, and Chassidus with warmth and authenticity. The leader is empowered to uplift both community and self through Torah study, heartfelt prayer, and acts of loving-kindness.