Anash Participants in the Yud Tes Kislev Farbrengen at the Nusach Ari Synagogue, Pine Avenue, Montreal refers to the members of the Chabad-Lubavitch community in Montreal who gathered for farbrengens (Chassidic gatherings) in celebration of Yud Tes Kislev, the "Festival of Redemption" marking the liberation of the Alter Rebbe, Rabbi Shneur Zalman of Liadi. The Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, addressed several letters to these gatherings, offering guidance, encouragement, and blessings.
The Rebbe's letters to the Anash participants in Montreal's Yud Tes Kislev farbrengens are characterized by warmth and spiritual encouragement. He expresses pleasure upon receiving reports of their gatherings and emphasizes the unique spiritual power of such assemblies, citing the teaching that "every gathering of ten, the Shechinah rests." The Rebbe highlights that when Jews unite—especially to celebrate the liberation of the Alter Rebbe, who exemplified self-sacrifice for Ahavas Yisrael (love of fellow Jews), love of Torah, and love of G-d—the Divine Presence is drawn down with even greater strength.
In his correspondence, the Rebbe urges the participants to make and uphold good resolutions in the areas of Torah study, prayer, and acts of kindness, drawing inspiration from the themes of Yud Tes Kislev. He connects these resolutions to the concept of "increasing in holiness" (ma'alin bakodesh), drawing a parallel to the increasing number of Chanukah lights, and encourages the community to continually add to their spiritual achievements, especially in the "darkness of exile."
The Rebbe also addresses the broader state of the Chabad community and its institutions in Montreal, expressing both joy at the community's growth and concern for the quality of its educational institutions. He calls for ongoing improvement and dedication, referencing the need for the yeshiva to live up to its name and the importance of both communal and individual Torah study and Chassidic gatherings.
Throughout his letters, the Rebbe emphasizes the importance of connection to the Nasi (leader), specifically the Alter Rebbe, and the transformative power of communal gatherings and resolutions. He encourages the participants to view Yud Tes Kislev as an auspicious time to strengthen their bond with Chassidus and with the Rebbeim, and to channel the inspiration of the day into practical commitments that will influence the entire year.
The Rebbe concludes his letters with heartfelt blessings for both material and spiritual success for each participant and their families, and expresses hope for continued good news and progress in all areas of communal and personal life.