Organizing Outreach and Reviewing Efforts in Eretz Yisrael

Holy Letters of the Rebbe – Volume 15, Letter 5420
Baruch Hashem, the second day of Iyar, 5717, Brooklyn. Addressed to the young man, the bochur and avreich, Yehoshofot שי׳ Alpert of ירושלים. Shalom u’Vracha.

The Rebbe writes that it was a pleasure to read his letter from Motzaei Shabbos Kodesh, in which he described the details of his travels and the various places he visited in the areas surrounding Jerusalem during the days of Pesach, as well as before and after the festival.

The Rebbe notes that such activities should certainly be conducted in an organized and centralized manner. Since we find ourselves in the final days of exile, every moment is precious, and every available strength and opportunity must be utilized to the fullest. Therefore, efforts should be coordinated so that time and resources are not wasted through unnecessary duplication.

The Rebbe adds that although duplication is still better than inaction, the ideal approach is to work cohesively and with proper organization so that the greatest possible benefit can be achieved.

The Rebbe further advises that at least the main points of the talks and messages delivered during these visits should be written down. Later, when all those who traveled gather together, they should review and discuss the material. As the verse states, teshuah b’rov yoetz—salvation comes through abundant counsel. By sharing ideas with others, the material can be improved, corrected, expanded, and refined.

Those talks or presentations that are found to be especially strong and effective should then be made available to the others as well, so they too can use them in future visits. In this way, one person’s success can become a resource for many.

The Rebbe also comments on the practice of arriving at certain places without prior notice. He writes that if there is no other option, or if special circumstances require it, then it may sometimes be necessary. However, as a general rule, this is not the preferred or organized way to proceed. Unexpected visits can make people uncomfortable and may hinder the ability to communicate effectively.

The writer had also asked whether he should teach Chassidus or recite a maamar in the places he visited. The Rebbe responds that this question should likewise be discussed at the larger gathering of those involved in the work, together with representatives of Tzeirei Agudas Chabad and the elder chassidim. Since this is an important matter, it deserves careful thought and proper guidance.

The Rebbe concludes with a blessing for good news.

The letter offers a clear model of effective outreach: enthusiasm and effort are essential, but they must be joined with planning, cooperation, reflection, and wise counsel in order to achieve the greatest success.