This talk, tour and dinner, featuring beloved broadcaster Sheryl MacKay and acclaimed death educator Christa Ovenell, will nurture a thoughtful conversation about end-of-life at the serene grounds of Saltspring Island Natural Cemetery. All proceeds will be donated to Stqeeye’ Learning Society.

The event takes place from 4-8 PM on Sunday, July 30th, and includes a welcome gathering, lecture, cemetery tour, and a gourmet longtable dinner prepared by Haidee Hart of Woodshed Provisions. Salt Spring’s finest local beer, cider and wine will also be provided. The fundraiser aims to foster meaningful dialogue within the community on important yet often taboo subjects.

It can be very difficult to have thoughtful, mature, and contemplative conversations about end-of-life and death and dying in our society; incorporating death into everyday life makes us more connected to ourselves and each other . It actually makes our lives richer to think about these things, which is why an event like this is so important. 

Sheryl MacKay, a well-known broadcaster with an illustrious career in journalism and storytelling, brings a wealth of experience and a compassionate perspective to the discussion. Joining her is Christa Ovenell, a respected death educator dedicated to helping individuals and communities navigate every aspect of planning for life AND death.

The afternoon will commence with an engaging lecture by MacKay and Ovenell, sharing personal anecdotes and thought-provoking questions to stimulate reflection on end-of-life. Following the lecture, participants will engage in a long-table dinner, continuing conversations in a relaxed and intimate setting.

Salt Spring Island Natural Cemetery provides a tranquil and picturesque backdrop for this extraordinary event, facilitating introspection and contemplation. Attendees can appreciate the natural beauty while engaging in meaningful discussions about life’s profound mysteries.

This lecture and long-table dinner promise to be an unforgettable experience, inviting the local community to deepen their understanding of death, embrace the transformative power of contemplation, and connect with others who share a curiosity for the enigmatic journey that lies ahead.

Tickets for this intimate event are limited and can be purchased at https://shorturl.at/oZ189. Early booking is encouraged to secure a place at this captivating evening of exploration and conversation.

For more information, please contact: Cathy Valentine, Manager, SSI Natural Cemetery cathy@saltspringcemetery.ca or 250-653-9884.