Shabbos, May 14, marked the 14th yahrzeit of South Florida legend Rabbi Dovid Bryn, zt”l, founder of Chabad Chayil and the California Club Shul. Mostly known for his unending acts of kindness and genuine love for every human being, he is truly missed by all who knew him.
Some rabbis are known for their gigantic shuls and temples, but Rabbi Bryn had a much bigger “shul” – one not bound by walls. His shul was in the flea markets, soccer fields of the JCC, and in people’s homes where he spread his love. The rabbi often spent his Sundays in teenagers’ living rooms with a pair of tefillin, inspiring and changing lives.
Rabbi Bryn’s life was tragically cut short at age 40 by Marfan syndrome, a condition that affects the body’s connective tissue. For over a quarter of a century, Rabbi Bryn, the son of Holocaust survivors, courageously battled the fatal disease, yet he managed to minister to, counsel, and save thousands of Jews and non-Jews alike. The rabbi’s overflowing concern for others left no room for him to worry over his own well-being. He lived the equivalent of 120 years of good in a third of the time.
One friend commented on RabbiDovidBryn.org – which was created to remember the his middos and deeds – “If he could breathe, then he would talk to others about G-d’s good, the beauty of a mitzvah, or life’s bright spots. If he could walk, then he would go to share life with others and show a positive perspective as it should be seen. He showed strength not demonstrated by men who appear stronger. He showed love that is only written about…. When I will need an example of the unrelenting power of love, I will think of him.”
In honor of his yahrzeit, the entire community was invited to a special tribute farbrengen at Chabad Chayil and the Dovid Bryn Library to say a l’chaim, reminisce about the good times shared together, and, most important, to talk about how his chesed could be emulated.
To view or share photos or experiences of this remarkable man, visit RabbiDovidBryn.org. To learn about the Special Tribute Torah being written in his honor and purchase a letter, word, or parshah, call 305-770-1919 or visit the website.
