Winter 1999-00

FOUNDER'S MESSAGE

In Jewish tradition, the Torah is referred to as the Tree of Life or Etz Chaim. Because the Torah is considered to be the lifeblood of the Jewish people, studying it is ranked in Jewish law as the highest commandment. Sadly, as a result of the devastation of the Holocaust and the oppression of Communist rule, the Jews of Central and Eastern Europe were powerless to observe this precept of Judaism for many years. In October, 1999, however, in an extraordinary and exciting journey, The Ronald S. Lauder Foundation proudly dedicated three new educational institutions in three days in three countries: The Lauder Jüdisches Lehrhaus in Berlin, Germany; The Lauder Chabad School in Vienna, Austria; and The Lauder-Morasha School in Warsaw, Poland. These dedications demonstrate that the Tree of Life is blossoming once again in a region of the world many thought had been lost to the Jewish people.

Now, it seems appropriate that just a few months later we are celebrating a day on the Jewish calendar known for rebirth, the holiday of Tu B'Shvat, otherwise known as the New Year for trees. On Tu B'Shvat, we traditionally celebrate by planting, a process that teaches an important lesson: it is our responsibility to prepare for the future, and to assure that the generations to come can do the same. This Tu B'Shvat, The Ronald S. Lauder Foundation rejoices for the seeds that we have planted during the past eleven years are beginning to bear beautiful fruits.

The study of Torah is taking place in vibrant Jewish communities throughout Central and Eastern Europe. In honor of Tu B'Shvat, we renew our promise to nurture these communities and to ensure that future generations will be sustained by the Tree of Life.

Warm Wishes for a Chag Sameach!

Ronald S. Lauder

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