8648 —התעוררות רוחנית, חינוך הנוער, ותפילה בבתי ספר ציבוריים

B"H, 15 Tammuz, 5723. Annual Convention of the Union of Rabbis of America, may Hashem be upon them and grant them life.

Shalom u'Vrachah!

In response to your notice about the annual convention that will take place in the coming days with G‑d's help, I hope that the convention will place on its agenda practical matters connected to utilizing this opportune moment due to the spiritual awakening stirring in broad circles of our people—especially among the youth.

Anyone whose heart is attuned to what is happening among Jewish youth knows that our era, full of events, has brought about a spiritual revolution in many circles as a result of various adventures and disappointments with different ideologies and movements—as well as other factors too numerous to elaborate here. However, for many this awakening is still like "he prophesied but did not know what he prophesied," while for others it is more tangible and clear—so much so that it has been called a "return to roots." What they share is that this awakening has created an opportune time to set many Jews on the path of truth and uprightness—the path of Torah and mitzvos.

But unfortunately, this opportunity is not being properly utilized; many still grope in darkness due to a lack of influence and appropriate guidance—to show G‑d's people the way they should go and especially what actions they should take. This is particularly important regarding youth who—by their very nature—experience every awakening with greater depth and intensity. They are not deterred by changes in their lifestyle if they feel and recognize internally that they are being given truth without compromise or embellishment. Every positive influence on them is multiplied many times over—and every moment counts.

On a related note: regarding the status of younger Jewish boys and girls—about whom it is specifically said "Veshinantam leVanecha" ("And you shall teach them diligently to your children") in the first paragraph of Krias Shema immediately upon accepting the yoke of Heaven—and repeated again in the second paragraph—underscoring the absolute necessity for pure holy education; Torah study outweighs all else.

Already in Gemara times there were those who fulfilled Torah study with just one verse morning and evening—and others who studied Torah day and night. All the more so in our days—it is imperative to strive with all one's might that every Jewish child learns sacred studies all day long—or at least studies in educational institutions known here as "yeshiva ketana." Yet at the same time one must not despair or neglect G‑d forbid those studying in public schools (public schools). The call of the hour is to do everything possible to keep this ember from being extinguished G‑d forbid—even if only through proper daily prayer so that Hashem's Name will be familiar on children's lips.

Of course this is not an ultimate goal—for as stated above full-day sacred learning is essential—but do not belittle even this step; especially since we were taught: one mitzvah brings another. Unfortunately one challenge today is that some fight against mentioning Hashem's Name in public schools—causing shocking desecration of Hashem's Name never before seen.

It goes without saying—and must be emphasized again and again—that we are speaking about proper prayer (i.e., non-denominational). To ensure things turn out as desired—it is necessary to oppose Bible reading in public schools since this could open demands for reading other texts as well.

Following our Sages' directive "Maaseh Rav" (practical precedent), and to counter those who mistakenly or intentionally cloak their opposition to mentioning Hashem's Name in public schools under a halachic guise—it is well known that one of the Baal Shem Tov's "holy works" was striving for Hashem's Name to be familiar on everyone's lips—including simple people, women, and children—by asking after their welfare so they'd answer "Baruch Hashem," etc. As emphasized by my father-in-law—the Previous Rebbe—this was not only at shul or home but also on streets, shops, workplaces—at all times everywhere (see at length Sefer HaMaamarim Yiddish 5701-5705 by my father-in-law—the maamar beginning "VeAta Kadosh Yoshev Tehillos Yisrael," p. 138ff).

Also related: federal government aid for religious schools (parochial schools)—as I have said many times—the absolute necessity for this; there is no basis for opposing it; on the contrary—it is a sacred duty for everyone to demand such aid openly.

May it be G‑d's will that members of Agudas HaRabbonim shlita—the spiritual leaders and shepherds of Israel across many holy communities (may they increase)—and especially this annual convention—take a strong clear stand on all these matters with practical plans leading to real action. The merit of the community will help them succeed—in these areas as well as others improving Torah observance in daily life among their congregants—for there is always room for greater holiness; it is best when its source flows from Ein Sof blessed be He.

May Hashem grant that they do so with fitting energy—with joy—and inner recognition that they are emissaries of Hashem; from them many will learn by example. Fulfilling this mission itself becomes also a channel—a vessel—for receiving Hashem's blessing for each person—in all their needs—for themselves and their families both materially and spiritually together.

Summary

The Rebbe urges communal leaders to seize today's unique spiritual openness among Jewish youth by prioritizing authentic Torah education—even small steps matter—and ensuring G‑d’s Name remains present even within secular environments. Leadership through action inspires lasting change.