Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson

Commonly known as the Rebbe, is one of the most widely recognized rabbinical figures in modern times. He was the 7th leader of Chabad, helping the Hasidic movement to reach Jews from every different background in every different part of the world. The Rebbe was extraordinary in many ways, including his fluency in modern science and world affairs. In addition to being known for his astute and broad knowledge of the Torah, he had a formal education from universities in France and Germany. From his headquarters at 770 Eastern Parkway in Crown Heights, he was in constant correspondence with world leaders, Jewish luminaries and common citizens from around the globe. As the Rebbe assumed leadership, many people predicted the worst for Orthodox Judaism. World War II had ravaged the Jewish communities in Europe. Communism drove Judaism into hiding behind the Iron Curtain. In America, people were assimilating and melting in to the general culture. The Rebbe, inspired by the Previous Lubavicher Rebbe's declaration that "America is no different," set a vigorous agenda to reinvigorate Jewish life around the world. Thousands of his Hasidim were sent out everywhere that Jews lived to brazenly advocate for Torah observance. The Rebbe specifically inaugurated 10 campaigns.

1. Lighting candles before Shabbat and the Jewish holidays by Jewish women and girls

2. Putting on tefillin by Jewish men and boys over the age of 13.

3. Having a mezuzah in the home

4. Torah study on a regular basis.

5. Giving Tzedakah

6. Purchasing Jewish religious literature including, at least, the Torah, Tehillim and a siddur.

7. Adhering to kashrut

8. Loving one's fellow Jew like oneself

9. Jewish education

10. Observing the laws of family purity

While there are many stories of personal miracles involving the Rebbe, the most obvious miracle has been the incredible growth of Chabad during his tenure and after his passing. There are now thousands of Chabad houses spread serving almost every Jewish community in the world. His many works include over 200 volumes of discourses, homilies, pastoral letters, halachic responsa, commentaries and a Jewish calendar. The Rebbe passed away on the 3rd of Tammuz 1992. He is buried next to his father-in-law, the sixth Lubavitcher Rebbe.