November 28, 2008
Rabbi Daniel Moscowitz
Lubavitch Chabad of Illinois
2833 West Howard Street
Chicago, IL 60645
Dear Rabbi Moscowitz,
It is with a sad and heavy heart that I write to you on behalf of the Jewish United Fund/Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Chicago, its Board, and its leadership to convey our condolences on the murder of the Chabad Shli’akh Rabbi Gavriel Holtzberg and his wife Rivka. In the face of this despicable act, and at this tragic moment, we write to you, and through you, to the worldwide Chabad movement to let you know that we are with you in this time of trouble. While grateful to God that their young son, Moshe, was saved, we face the heartbreaking reality that Moshe will celebrate his second birthday tomorrow, as an orphan. Of course, he always was and will now especially be a son of Chabad and the whole House of Israel.
No matter where they are it is the distinction of Chabad, from its very inception, to share in the Jewish people’s greatest joys and saddest moments. Lubavitch has a well deserved, indeed legendary reputation for taking care of Jews no matter where they are found. That such a young, vibrant, and dedicated couple as Rabbi Gavriel and Rivka Holtzberg should pay with their lives for this commitment is too much to bear. The pain of this moment is made greater still in the knowledge that today is Rosh Khodesh Kislev, the month in which we will soon celebrate Chanuka, the Festival of Lights, and the month in which Chabad celebrates the liberation from prison of its founder, the saintly Rabbi Shneur Zalman of Liadi. Please know that we at Federation are in touch with the situation in Mumbai through our JDC staff who are providing assistance. May we all know of no more sorrow and pain.
With prayers that the approaching Shabbat provide all of us with a measure of comfort and unity I remain sincerely yours,
Steve
Steven B. Nasatir
President, Jewish United Fund/Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Chicago
