Facing Death Without Faith (Ella Baker)
The end of life is not just a physical event; it is a profound spiritual and existential journey of meaning and connection. This course offers a non-religious approach to navigating this final chapter by giving people the language and tools to find peace, purpose, and dignity. Based on the educator's experience serving as a chaplain in hospice, we will explore how to have deep, life-affirming conversations about death and dying without relying on any specific faith tradition. This is an invitation to tell the most loving and coherent story we can about our existence, and one that fully encompasses our final moments. The goal is to move toward the end of life with love, joy, hope, clarity, and a sense of completeness, whatever one's personal beliefs may be.
Stephen Anthony Richards
Stephen Richards, MA, is a community educator, writer, and former hospice chaplain with extensive experience supporting individuals and families through complex life transitions. He teaches adult education courses on topics including end-of-life planning, dementia, and navigating difficult conversations. With a background in education, healthcare, and trauma-informed communication — supported by a master’s degree, Clinical Pastoral Education completed in healthcare settings, and prior experience as a high school teacher — Stephen is particularly interested in how people make meaning during times of change, and in creating learning environments that offer practical insight, compassion, and respect for diverse experiences and beliefs.
AE-44022-S26-EB
Instructors:
- Stephen Anthony Richards
| Date | Time | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Thu, Apr 16th 2026 | 6:30 - 8:30 PM | Ella Baker School |