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Shalom Poyzner was a Chassidic individual who maintained a correspondence with the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson. His letters to the Rebbe included personal reports, requests for guidance, and lists of individuals he had influenced in matters of Jewish thought, speech, and action.
The letters between Shalom Poyzner and the Rebbe reflect a relationship of mutual respect and spiritual mentorship. The Rebbe acknowledges receiving Poyzner's letters and the enclosed panim (requests for prayer) in a timely manner, expressing apologies for any delay in response due to the Rebbe's pressing responsibilities, such as preparing and editing Chassidic publications for significant dates in the Chabad calendar.
A notable theme in their correspondence is Poyzner's efforts to positively influence a group of Jews—a "minyan"—in the areas of thought, speech, and action, as encouraged by the Rebbe. The Rebbe expresses great satisfaction upon receiving a list of names of those whom Poyzner had impacted, and promises to mention them at the holy resting place of the previous Rebbe, especially on the auspicious day of Yud-Tes Kislev, known as the "Rosh Hashanah for Chassidus." The Rebbe also reassures Poyzner that any delays in correspondence should not be interpreted as displeasure, G-d forbid.
The correspondence also touches on the challenges of arranging communal matters in the manner of the previous Rebbe, with the Rebbe explaining the need for specific personal and spiritual capacities to fulfill such roles.
The Rebbe offers Shalom Poyzner blessings for success in his holy work and expresses hope that both he and those he influences will continue to receive the blessings of the previous Rebbe. The tone throughout is warm, encouraging, and supportive, highlighting the Rebbe's appreciation for Poyzner's dedication and his role in strengthening Jewish observance and Chassidic life.