Children Dedicate New Torah in the Valley

Hundreds joined to celebrate the completion of a Torah in memory of Holocaust survivor Max Gryczman by his children, at Chabad of Encino.

In commemoration of the 5th Yahrzeit of Holocaust survivor Max Gryczman, his son Steve Gryczman dedicated a new Torah written especially in his memory.

Hundreds of friends, family and community members joined Mrs. Bluma Gryczman, Max’s wife, as the Torah was completed.

A large parade of people proudly marched down Ventura Blvd, the main street in Encino, and escorted the new Torah to its permanent home at Chabad of Encino.

Excitement filled the air as many of the friends and family donned Teffilin, sang, danced and celebrated this momentous occasion.

“This represents a true victory over Hitler,” stated Rabbi Joshua B. Gordon in his address to the large assemblage, “to see four generations of Max’s descendants singing and dancing with a newly written 3300 year old Torah scroll, means that we won the war!”

Steve Gryczman spoke of the great love his father Max had for his family as well as for the State of Israel, the Jewish people and humanity. He also underscored his father’s special connection to this Shul and the Encino community. Despite his difficult and challenging life, he was a very positive and optimistic and soft-spoken man and never had a bad word to say about anyone.

Rabbi Yossi Malka and many other Shluchim and Shluchos of Chabad of the Valley helped organize and direct the beautiful and joyous celebration.