Panelists will discuss faith, end-of-life care

What happens when you die? It's a deep question that will bring many different answers.

Panelists who represent seven different faiths will discuss that question at two events in October sponsored by the Kaufman Interfaith Institute at Grand Valley in partnership with Making Choices Michigan.

"What Happens When You Die" will explore the beliefs and practices of faith traditions that inform end of life care. The two events will be held at the Eberhard Center, 301 Fulton St. W. Events are free and open to the public, details are below. RSVP for either or both dates online at gvsu.edu/interfaith.

• October 9, 7-8:30 p.m.: Panelists representing Judaism, Islam, Baha'i, and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints 

• October 16, 7-8:30 p.m.: Panelists representing Hinduism, Buddhism, and Sikhism

Kyle Kooyers, program manager for the Kaufman Interfaith Institute, said many health care providers and hospice agencies operate from an assumed "Christian norm" or are unaware of terms of care faith communities look for at the end of a patient's life. "They are eager to have a space for this type of learning in order to better serve their diverse clientele," he said.

Continuing education credits will be offered for social workers and registered nurses for $20, payable to Making Choices Michigan, a nonprofit organization that advocates advance care planning. Questions can be directed to the Kaufman Interfaith Institute at [email protected] or x15702.