Alzheimer's Conference Set Sept. 12 in Costa Mesa

The Interfaith Outreach Committee of the Alzheimer's Assn. of Orange County will sponsor the conference "Spiritual Care of Patients and Families Affected by Alzheimer's Disease" Sept. 12 at Vanguard University in Costa Mesa. Speakers will include clinical psychologist Kent Peppard discussing "What is Alzheimer's Disease?" and Cordula Dick-Muehlke, executive director of Adult Day Services of Orange County, discussing "Spirituality as a Basis for Dementia Care." There will also be an interfaith panel moderated by Bill Bennett of the Crystal Cathedral of Garden Grove. This free conference is scheduled from 1 to 4:30 p.m. Registration is required by Wednesday. Vanguard University is at 55 Fair Drive. (714) 283-1984, Ext. 230.

* What is the meaning of life? How can I make the most of the rest of my life? Is it important what I believe? "Alpha" is a course designed to give you some answers. Emmanuel Episcopal Church, Fullerton will sponsor the Alpha course on Christian faith, beginning with an introduction dinner on Sept. 23 at 5 p.m. Classes will continue on Sundays for 10 weeks.

Alpha, designed by the Anglican Church of England, features a series of 10 videos followed by food and fellowship, Alpha is designed to answer questions, deepen faith, and give insight into Biblical teachings in a nonthreatening environment. All are welcome. The church is at 1145 W. Valencia Mesa Dr. (714) 879-8070.

* The Orange County Buddhist Church in Anaheim will offer four eight-week classes on Buddhism, all starting Oct. 1. "The Essence of Spirituality, East and West" (Mondays from 7:30-9 p.m.) will look at what it means to be "religious" or "spiritual" using classic theories.

"Introduction to Buddhist Calligraphy" (Tuesdays from 7:30-9 p.m.) is a beginning course in Japanese calligraphy, which is writing with the Japanese brush, or fude. After covering the basics, the course will focus on the meaning of key Buddhist characters.

"Introduction to Buddhism and Jodo Shinshu" (Tuesdays at 7:30-9 p.m) is a survey course outlining the basic teachings of Buddhism, the life of Shakyamuni Buddha, and the development of Buddhism leading to Jodo Shinshu.

"Shoshinge to Koso Wasan" (Thursdays at 7:30-9 p.m.) will study Shinran's Shoshinge and poems of the seven masters.

Application deadline is Sept. 28. The church is at 909 S. Dale, near the intersection of Dale Avenue and Ball Road in Anaheim. (714) 827-9590 or: