Orientation to Zen Practice, introduction for beginners and a refresher for others, covers basic instruction in zazen (sitting meditation) and Zen practice forms, 9 a.m.-noon today, Palolo Zen Center of the Honolulu Diamond Sangha; free. 735-1347.

"The Endangered Buddhist Temples of Hawai'i: How Can I Help?" panel discussion led by David Cheever of the Historic Hawai'i Foundation with guest speaker Anthea Hartig of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, 1-4 p.m. tomorrow, East-West Center; free. 944-7177.

Rally Day, open house with displays, keiki games, refreshments and an introduction to the ministry opportunities with and for children during the school year, following the 8 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. services tomorrow, Christ Lutheran Church, Mililani; free. 623-9229.

Ground Breaking Sunday, celebration of the 50th year of ministry with a groundbreaking ceremony for the new church building, with special music and refreshments, 9 a.m. tomorrow, Windward United Church of Christ, 38 Kane'ohe Bay Drive, Kailua. 254-3802.

Bible Institute of Hawai'i begins its fall session of classes of Bible study this week, including "Matthew" taught by the Rev. Brad Smith, "Real Worship: Playground, Battleground or Holy Ground?" with Jonathan Wong and "Psalms" taught by Ada Lum. Complete schedule, locations, fees and registration: 595-4700, www .biblehawaii.org.

Autumn Thanksgiving Festival, expressions of gratitude for health and peace and prayers for continued prosperity and world peace, 3 p.m. tomorrow, Daijingu Temple of Hawaii; fellowship meal at 4:30 p.m. and dedication ceremonies with classical Japanese and traditional Ryukyu dance performance; free. 595-3102.

Prayer Clusters, singing, dancing, praying and sharing, 12-week series begins Wednesday, Calvary by the Sea Lutheran Church. 741-9535.

Opening Liturgical Celebration and Reception marks the beginning of the 50th anniversary year for Chaminade University, with a Mass of Thanksgiving celebrated by Father Gary Secor, 4 p.m. Sept. 17, followed by a reception and trolley tours of the campus; free. 739-8365, www .chaminade.edu/50th.

"The Cream Rises to the Top: Letting the best happen within you," women's retreat sponsored by Scrub Bucket Gospel Ministries with Maxine Pollock, Sept. 30-Oct. 2, St. Stephen's Diocesan Center; $129 with private bath, $109 with shared bath. 254-1091.

Send announcements with contact name and phone number to: Faith Calendar, The Honolulu Advertiser, P.O. Box 3110, Honolulu, HI 96802; faith@honoluluadvertiser.com with "Faith Cal" in the subject line; or fax 525-8055.