Spiritual and Practical Preparation for End of Life

Monthly on Sunday Afternoons 
3:30-5:00 PM

Though most would agree in principle that it is important to talk about our needs and wishes as we approach the end of our lives, few actually have these conversations.  This 8-part series offers the opportunity to explore both the practical and spiritual sides of preparing for death in a safe and supportive space.  We will study Jewish traditions around death, dying, and mourning, share our wishes for end-of-life care and funeral planning, and hopefully find ways to articulate our values and the moral legacy we hope to pass on to those we love.

Tentative schedule below.

October 19 - Session 1:  Jewish Traditions around End of Life – Introductions and Goal Setting
   -Key Terms and Practices

November 9 - Session 2: Jewish Views of Death, Dying, and beyond
   -Exploration of classical and contemporary sources

December 14 - Session 3: Advanced Care Decision-Making (Guest Speaker – What Matters)
   -How do I crystallize and delegate my wishes for life and death before I am unable to communicate them myself?

January 11 - Session 4: Getting your Affairs in Order (Guest Speaker)
   -How do I compile all of my important documents, electronic footprint, and materials in a way that my advocates can access easily?
 
February 8 - Session 5: Crafting an Ethical Will 
   -What are the values and moral legacy I hope to pass on to the people who matter most to me?
 
March 8 -Session 6: Preparing for a funeral – (Guest Speaker)
   -What kind of funeral do I want?  How do I make all the necessary arrangements in advance?
 
April 12- Session 7: What Happens Next? 
   -Jewish Practices Following Death & the Chevre Kadisha

May 17 - Session 8: Mourning Practices in the First Year (from Burial to Unveiling)
   - Wrapping Up/Closing ritual