ABODE Academy 4 focuses on Death and Dying: Religious Customs and Rituals. While most of us are familiar with customs and rituals in our own faith communities, those of our neighbors can seem a bit of a mystery. Which faiths favor cremation? Which favor burial? Which believe in reincarnation? What special prayers and anointments are needed? What medications are acceptable? And how about dietary considerations, dress codes and whether those dying should face east – or west?

A better understanding of our friends and neighbors helps ensure that we can take better care of one another in our final days.