
Facilitated by Rabbi Michael Hess Webber and David Zinner Co-sponsored by Hineni Caring Cooperative
SUNDAY, APRIL 5 4:00pm – 5:30pm
End-Of-Life Planning: An Overview
Rabbi Michael Hess Webber and David Zinner
What is this course all about – What we hope to accomplish
Question: What are the Jewish traditions that move us through the dying, death and mourning process? How do they function?
SUNDAY, APRIL12 4:00pm – 5:30pm
The Power of Showing Up: Avelut and Aninut
David Zinner and Cantor Jan Morrison
Explore the comforting power of presence and how we can show up courageously and authentically for those who grieve: Shmira, Burial, Shiva.
Questions: What is the most effective way to show up for those who are grieving? What do we say when someone is mourning? What NOT to say when someone is mourning.
SUNDAY, APRIL19 11:00am, Serenity Ridge Cemetery
Understanding Green Burial and the Jewish Hesitance Around Cremation
David Zinner and Bonnie Sorak
Visit Serenity Ridge – caravan or solo drive – meet at 10:15 am – leave at 10:30. Picnic at the cemetery. Bring Your Own Lunch (and picnic blanket and chair or and umbrella if its sunny or rainy) If you are in the Diving Into Judaism class you can make it back for the 1pm start.
Questions: Why does Judaism encourage burial? Isn’t cremation healthier for the environment?! What is green burial and how is it similar to traditional Jewish burial? Is green burial possible in Howard County?
SUNDAY, APRIL26
Wills: Funeral and Burial
David Zinner
SUNDAY, MAY 3
Wills: Legacy Giving and Advance Directives
David Zinner
Legacy Giving: Bob Sandler, Robin Rosenfeld
Advanced Directives: Dr. Andrew Lazris
Estate Planning:
TUESDAY, MAY 12 6:00pm with pizza dinner
Wills: Ethical
Rabbi Michael Hess Webber, David Zinner and Helene Kass
Starting is the hardest step. Bring the writing device you are most comfortable using (ie laptop, tablet, journal).
SUNDAY, MAY 17
Siyum: Death Over Desserts (potluck)
Rabbi Michael Hess Webber and David Zinner
End-of-Life plans should be concretized. Invite your loved ones to snacks and share about your End-of-Life plans.
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