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Chaim Plautkin was a shochet u'bodek (ritual slaughterer and examiner) based in Toronto, Canada, who maintained correspondence with the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson. The Rebbe's letters to him reflect his involvement in communal and religious activities, as well as his influence on the Jewish community in his city.
The Rebbe's letters to Chaim Plautkin are warm and encouraging, expressing both personal concern and communal guidance. In a letter dated 24 Menachem Av, 5711 (1951), the Rebbe expresses pleasure at receiving news of Plautkin's well-being and commends his efforts to bring others closer to Judaism through personal visits. The Rebbe emphasizes the importance of regular contact with individuals who may be distant from Jewish practice, suggesting that material assistance can help open hearts to spiritual matters.
The Rebbe also encourages Plautkin to organize and participate in chassidic gatherings such as farbrengens, kiddushim, and Melaveh Malkas. He highlights the transformative power of these gatherings in drawing Jews closer to their Father in Heaven, noting that even small beginnings can yield significant spiritual results. The Rebbe assures Plautkin that such efforts do not require excessive toil and expresses confidence in their positive impact.
In a subsequent letter dated 22 Tammuz, 5715 (1955), the Rebbe responds to Plautkin's reports of his communal activities, particularly in matters of "maamad" (communal support). The Rebbe encourages him to continue seeking effective ways to teach and inspire the community, emphasizing that spiritual benefit often leads to material blessing as well. The Rebbe addresses practical matters, instructing that all expenses related to communal work should be covered by the appropriate committee, citing the example of previous Rebbes and their approach to communal finances.
Throughout the correspondence, the Rebbe offers personal blessings to Plautkin and his family, praying for their health, longevity, and success in all matters. He assures Plautkin that he will be mentioned at the resting place of the previous Lubavitcher Rebbe for blessings in both personal and communal affairs. The tone of the letters is one of encouragement, appreciation, and spiritual mentorship, reflecting the Rebbe's deep care for individuals engaged in strengthening Jewish life and observance.