From the Archive: Build the Army of G-d

A page from the Rugby Young Israel 30th Anniversary journal, which marked Rabbi Avigdor Miller's 10th Anniversary as its rabbi.

In his written remarks, he both lauds the spiritual growth of his congregants and urges them ever higher. 

A page from the Rugby Young Israel 30th Anniversary journal with remarks from Rabbi Avigdor Miller

The text of the page reads:

MESSAGE FROM OUR RABBI
The most gratifying aspect of our congregation is the steady progress of the individual members. To discerning men, this is the index of a synagogue’s success. Whether this progress is in observance of practical Mitzvos, or in mental attitudes, or in Torah knowledge, if is the prime achievement of our organization.

It is of the utmost importance to keep this axiom before one’s eyes constantly, for the pressure of spurious values is being ceaselessly exerted by the empty world of the general American Jewish community. This vigilance, which has been practiced by our membership for many years, has paid off in huge dividends for Rugby Young lsrael. The forces of Torah are marching forward on many fronts: Yeshivos, Mesivtos, Colelim, Beth Jacob, summer camps, Chassidic and other orthodox groups and movements; and in the front ranks together with the best, marches the Young Israel of Rugby. But all This is built on one person: You. The more sincere and intense is your observance of Mitzvos, or your progress in Torah-knowledge, or your efforts for the Torah-study of your children, the stronger our congregation becomes. The organization has facilities to. Assist your successful progress in true Judaism. consider if you are making full use of these facilities. build yourself, and you thus build the army of G-d.

RABBI AVIGDOR MILLER