Panel discussion teaches Comox Valley about dying and death

The Comox Valley Hospice Society is holding a panel discussion in April all about death, dying and grief.

The April 27 event is called Cultural Conversations on Death, Dying and Grief, and is intended for anyone with a curiosity about the universal experience of end of life and how various traditions and practices help guide people through this profound experience.

Six engaging panel members will share how their traditions support individuals, families and community through these life transitions. The afternoon event will be a safe space for conversation, learning and sharing, in a creative and welcoming atmosphere. There will be time for questions and engagement and the event is open to all. 

The panellists include the following community members, whose more in-depth biographies can be previewed online at comoxhospice.com/cultural-conversations: 

- James Cribb, photographer/author and filmmaker of the Bah谩始铆 faith whose work has focused on capturing the sacred moments of this fleeting life. 

- Arzeena Hamir, local organic farmer and engaged community member, born into the Ismaili Muslim community. 

- Geshe YongDong Losar, Tibetan spiritual teacher in the Yungdrung B枚n lineage, rooted in the indigenous spiritual tradition of the Himalayas. 

- Kester Reid, storyteller, musician and mentor, a naturalist and student of ancestral culture including Gaelic lineage and Indigenous traditions. 

- Esther Shatz, a long-standing member of the Comox Valley Jewish Community. 

- Rev. Ryan Slifka, Minister at St. George鈥檚 United Church who loves helping to cultivate loving, gracious people of faith who are hopeful in this life and the next.