Welcome!
Learn more about the Death Cafe here.

A Death Cafe a unique space where we can explore life's final chapter together in a thoughtful, positive environment. Here, you will join others who are curious about end-of-life topics not from a place of grief, but from a desire to live more fully by acknowledging our mortality. These conversations, while seemingly challenging, often bring unexpected joy, connection, and clarity as we share our thoughts in a respectful, supportive setting.

We invite you to bring your questions, perspectives, and openness as we navigate this universal human experience together.

About Your Host

Reverend Linda Anderson

Rev Linda Anderson is both a Buddhist and a retired Unitarian Universalist minister. She has worked as a hospital chaplain and educator of chaplains.

She has done death and dying work, first as an original member of the Palliative Care Team at Bridgeport Hospital, and then leading Death Cafes and Bereavement groups all over Long Island and New York City. In retirement, she’s focusing on the Unitarian Universalist Trauma Response Ministry, where she serves as a Board member and Response Coordinator. She currently lives in the Capital Region of New York with her wife, son, and Tibetan Terrier.

Death Cafe: An Evening of Meaningful Conversation

Thursday, March 26, 2026 • 7:00 PM
(Join us for an additional special event following the Two-Day Intensive Patient Safety Advocate Training)
Facilitator: Rev. Linda Anderson

What’s a Death Cafe?

A Death Cafe is a group-directed discussion about death held in a respectful, safe environment with no agenda or objectives. It’s not grief counseling, therapy, or a support group—rather, it’s a space where people can gather to discuss death, dying, and living fully in a surprisingly pleasant and meaningful way. Small groups of participants are seated together with a facilitator who guides the conversation using a “menu” of questions such as:

What is a good death?
What do you want to be remembered for?
What kind of funeral or memorial service do you want?

Respect for differing ideas and beliefs is practiced throughout.

Why Attend?

Experience a meaningful ritual of community and presence
Explore end-of-life thoughts, questions, and values with compassion
Gain perspective that strengthens both personal and professional caregiving
Build connections with advocates committed to safer, more human-centered healthcare

All are welcome, come with an open heart, a curious mind, and a willingness to engage in an honest conversation about life and death. Even if loss is not present in your life today, this is a dynamic space for you to learn, grow, and share your beliefs.

Event Details & Cost

For attendees of the Family Centered Patient Advocacy Training:
The Dinner and Death Cafe Event: $65

For the public: (only attending dinner and Death Cafe): $85 - If you are not attending the all-day training event, please arrive promptly at 5:30 pm for the dinner, followed by the Death Cafe event.)

Whether you are attending the Family Centered Patient Advocacy Training or joining us solely for this unique community event, the Death Café offers an opportunity to explore one of life’s most important topics in a supportive and nonjudgmental environment.