Before my mother's passing, she mentioned how much she valued the warmth and joy exuding from Rabbi's children whom she would often see at the JCC.
Rabbi Brennan's sweet family would always share wide smiles and kind words with Mom. These simple and short interactions later played a significant role in ensuring Mom received a proper Jewish burial.
With her passing, I was devastated. I didn't know where to go or what to do - emotionally or practically.
But Mom's appreciation for the Brennan children inspired me to reach out to the Rabbi for his assistance.
Rabbi Brennan personally took care of arranging everything - even though he barely had known Mom, and definitely had not known me!
Previously I had considered cremation for Mom, but the Rabbi taught us about the importance of a Jewish burial. He also explained to us the significance of tearing Kriah and the spiritual and emotional need of properly mourning our loss.
With great sensitivity and genuine compassion, Rabbi Brennan guided us through this challenging part of the life cycle.
When confronted with his love and care, I realized that he was the first Orthodox Jew I had ever met, and my previous perceptions on orthodoxy had been so far from reality!
Rabbi Brennan assisted in bringing Mom to her final life journey, but along the way he helped me embark on a Jewish life journey of my own.
Thank you for your support which continues the journey of so many.