February 3rd, 2001

To the friends of the famed organization “Brit Yosef Yitzchak”
And the founder/director Rabbi Yaron Amit

I would like to bless all those doing the holy work of entering the nation of Israel into the covenant of Avraham Avinu in the holy land and outside of it, including our country. I would like to express my gratitude to the Mohel Rabbi Yishaya Shafit who travels throughout Russia and the former Soviet Union and grants thousands of Jews this Mitzvah.

With respect to Brit Milah, the Jews here resemble the generation that left Egypt and did not have the chance to circumcise themselves. As we know, Jews here were not allowed to circumcise their sons for many years, and now there is a great need for it. There is no doubt that the memory of those who risked their lives back then to promote this Mitzvah, gives strength to those who dedicate themselves today to the strengthening of this Mitzvah.

May we be blessed to see many great wonders in our days, thanks to those that deal with this great Mitzvah.

May you see great success,

Sincerely,

Rabbi Berel Lazar
Chief Rabbi of Russia

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