A Father’s Kaddish: A Journey Through the Universal Experience of Loss

August 24, 2023
Join the Foundation for Jewish Philanthropies on Wednesday, September 6 at 5 pm, for a special film screening of “A Father’s Kaddish,” followed by dinner at Max & Louie’s. This documentary follows the story of how Steven Branfman turned to the art of pottery to help him process his grief following the death of his 23-year-old son. A week after his son’s passing, Steven created a chawan, a traditional Japanese tea bowl. For the next 365 days, Steven dedicated himself to his pottery wheel, crafting one chawan each day. In this solitary act of creation, he found solace and a way to express his grief – his own private kaddish, the Jewish prayer of mourning.
Not only is this a unique opportunity to view this film, but the subject of the documentary, Steven Branfman, will be present to answer questions, discuss his experience, and explain the importance of leaving a legacy. The film is free to attend and view by members of the community. Following the film, those who purchased a ticket will walk to Max & Louie’s NY Diner to enjoy a kosher-style dinner.
Learn more about this film at https://www.afatherskaddish.com/