Missouri Governor Jay Nixon has proclaimed July 1, 2014, as a “Day of Good Deeds” in Missouri in commemoration of the 20th anniversary of the passing of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, z”l.

Communities worldwide are marking the anniversary on July 1. Rabbi Schneerson — referred to by many as simply “the Rebbe” —  was a renowned scholar and leader of the Chabad-Lubavitch movement. Under his leadership, the Chabad movement grew exponentially, with Lubavitch emissaries and centers set up all over the world, aiming to reconnect Jews with their Jewish heritage.

“His teachings which emphasized the inherent goodness of mankind, the infinite potential within every individual and the profound value of even the smallest good deed, inspired multitudes around and resonated globally,” states a Chabad news release.

Rabbi Schneerson is the only rabbi to receive the Congressional Gold Medal and to have an American national day proclaimed in his honor, Education and Sharing Day. 

“Since his passing in 1994, the Rebbe’s message of love and hope continue to inspire and impact millions across the globe,” reads Gov. Nixon’s  proclamation. “[T]he State of Missouri recognizes the vast accomplishments of the Rebbe and the relevance of his immortal message today, in this State and beyond.”

Thousands of the Rebbe’s followers and disciples around the world are redoubling their efforts at personal prayer and reflection and acts of loving kindness in preparation for the special date, as well as increasing their personal and communal efforts to encourage others to do the same.  A delegation of Chabad communal leaders from throughout Missouri will join the commemorations at the Rebbe’s resting place in Queens, New York on July 1.

Two scholars have recently released biographical works on the Rebbe. Rabbi Adin Even Israel Steinsaltz authored “My Rebbe” (Maggid/Koren Press), and Rabbi Joseph Telushkin’s “Rebbe: The Life and Teachings of Menachem M. Schneerson, the Most Influential Rabbi in Modern History” (Harper) debuted on the New York Times bestseller list shortly after its release.

“The most remarkable phenomenon about the Rebbe”, said Rabbi Yosef Landa, regional director of Chabad of Greater St. Louis, “is how enduring and widespread the influence of his teachings are. Twenty years following his passing, the message and inspiration of the Rebbe are being felt in more places and in more ways than ever before.”

For more information, visit www.showmechabad.com/rebbe.