Sponsored by the first Buddhist graduate institution in the region, the conference will gather Buddhist practitioners, scholars, leaders and the public from the Philadelphia area to share their experiences in current Buddhist study, teaching and service.

Kenneth Kraft, professor of religious studies at Lehigh University and author of books and papers on Zen Buddhism and social action, will present ''What is the Sound of the Liberty Bell? Reflections on Buddhism and Democracy,'' at 1:45 p.m. Relating the Buddhist notion of liberation to the idea of liberty, Kraft will explore the religion's emphasis on self-understanding and its application to modern problems.

Following Kraft's address, participants will attend discussion groups, followed by a panel presentation summarizing their findings. A light meal and an opportunity to socialize will end the day. The program is free, but registration is required.

Visit http://www.woninstitute.org to download a registration form, or call Dagmar Goretzki, director of development, at 215-884-8942.