Garchen is regarded as the most important Rinpoche in the ancient Drikung Kagyu order. Born in East Tibet in 1936, his lineage can be traced to Gardampa Chodengpa, the 12th-century founder of the Drikung Kagyu order. Rinpoche recently returned to America after an extended retreat in Tibet but when not touring Buddhist centers throughout the United States, he makes his home at the Garchen Institute in Chino, Ariz.

Gar Drolma member, Ellen Marie Lauricella of Yellow Springs, said the dedication will be followed by a public talk beginning at 7 p.m.

"Even though he doesn't live in Dayton, Garchen Rinpoche is the spiritual founder of our center," Lauricella said. "It's because of him the center exists. After he performs the dedication, we will talk about our faith which is based on active compassion. When we meditate, the object is to transform our minds so that we become the embodiment of compassion."

Weekend activities continue on Saturday with Green Tara Empowerment and Teachings from 9 a.m. until noon and from 2 to 4 p.m., and on Sunday with an Introduction and Traditional Tsok Practice and Refuge Ceremony from 9 a.m. until noon and from 2 to 4 p.m.

For more information call, 256-7206. Contact Khalid Moss at (937) 225-2167.