Trump honors Lubavitcher Rebbe

(JNS)—The White House published a proclamation by U.S. President Donald Trump honoring the memory of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, stating that March 27 is recognized as “Education and Sharing Day, U.S.A.”

An event was scheduled on March 27 in the Oval office with Chabad-Lubavitch representatives. The date marks the Jewish calendar birthday of the Rebbe on 11 Nissan, which fell on Tuesday.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also marked the day, posting on Facebook a link to a Hebrew article (English version here) describing his relationship and interactions with the Rebbe.

“Today, we honor the life and legacy of Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson. The Lubavitcher Rebbe was a widely respected scholar and leader of faith who believed in the potential of all persons and sought to empower young people through education, character development and civic pride,” said Trump’s statement released by the White House.

“Throughout his long and distinguished life, Rabbi Schneerson inspired millions of people, across multiple generations, through his example of compassion, wisdom and courage in the face of oppression. He recognized that access to education, paired with moral and spiritual development, could transform the world for good, and he devoted his life to these principles,” it said.

“His commitment to invest in the lives of the next generation led to the establishment of academic and outreach centers to help grow and engage young minds and provide them with spiritual and material assistance. Thanks to his drive and dedication, these educational and social service centers can be found in every state and throughout the world.”

It continued: “The Lubavitcher Rebbe believed that even in the darkest place, ‘the light of a single candle can be seen far and wide.’ His life is an example of the power of one person to influence the lives of many. May we strive to be that light for future generations, instilling in them the value of education and the virtues of courage and compassion that can impact our communities and the world for the better.”