Four Chassidim share their personal memories of the Yud Shevat milestones spanning four decades, offering a rare glimpse into the atmosphere surrounding the Rebbe’s nesius during its 10th, 20th, 30th, and 40th anniversaries.

Through their recollections, a picture emerges of growing anticipation, strong intensity, and the Rebbe’s steady guidance as each landmark year approached.

Rabbi Shmuel Lew of London, England, reflected on Yud Shevat 5720, the tenth anniversary of the Rebbe’s nesius. He described a palpable sense of uplift with the shul packed wall to wall for the farbrengen. He vividly recalled the presence of the Rebbe’s mother, Rebbetzin Chana, and the deeply charged atmosphere, as the Rebbe spoke about connecting the highest spiritual concepts with practical avodah in the lowest places.

Rabbi Yosef Minkowitz of Montreal, Canada, shared memories of Yud Shevat 5730, the twentieth anniversary, marked by immense excitement surrounding the Moshiach Sefer Torah. He recalled the Rebbe’s powerful declaration that all limitations connected to the coming of Moshiach had been removed. 

Rabbi Mendel Raskin of Montreal, Canada, spoke about Yud Shevat 5740, the thirtieth anniversary, which was preceded by a strong awakening, including special involvement of children. He described how people poured in from around the world and one especially striking moment when the Rebbe distributed dollars to everyone present.

Rabbi Yitzi Lowenthal from Copenhagen, Denmark, recalled Yud Shevat 5750, the fortieth anniversary, which the Rebbe prepared for nearly a month in advance. He describes the incredible Shabbos preceding Yud Shevat, as well as all the gifts brought to the Rebbe. On Yud Shevat, the Rebbe watched the tank parade, looking like a general seeing off his troops. Later that day, the Rebbe distributed Tanyas for close to five hours.

Together, the four speakers painted a living timeline of Yud Shevat, showing how each milestone built upon the last, strengthening Chassidim’s connection to the Rebbe and renewing their sense of commitment to the Rebbe’s mission to bring Moshiach.

The event was produced by Vaad Ohr Vechom Hahiskashrus.

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