Pre-pandemic, this temple was a smaller lot that eventually extended to what it is now. During non-celebratory days will allow for parking on the lot, but during days of observance and celebration, you'll have to find street parking. Parking in the neighborhood is impacted, so it's best to just get there early.
The monks here speak various languages and chant in Pali. If you only speak English, some do speak English, so don't shy away from asking questions. Volunteers and temple devotees are usually on site to help with inquiries. If you read Khmer, this temple has the chants pre-printed in booklets in Khmer, so you can follow along.
For those who are not familiar with temple schedules, monks eat before noon, so all the substantive services occur in the morning.
I visited for the Killing Fields Memorial Center annual observance, which is every April 17th.
DO:
- Bring something to share or offer. Donuts and coffee are usually staples because it's an easy, economical, portable breakfast. I brought individually wrapped pastries to add to the mix, because it's self contained and there's usually children who are finicky about their foods who will eat them.
- Take off your shoes when stepping onto the straw mats or seating area in front of the monks.
- Because of previous point (taking off shoes), do wear shoes that are easy to take off. It's not uncommon for some folks to wear slip-on's or flip flops... don't judge.
- Do help clean up after services and eating. After dharma talk, lunch and fellowship, help clean up. At least clean up after yourself or your group.
DON'T:
- Do not touch the monks. Women, do not try to shake their hands or otherwise make any physical skin-to-skin contact. My fingertip accidentally touch a monk's hand during a blessing of a commonly held item, and I got some harsh lip service back in the day. Learn from my experience.
- Do not double dip. So, there's sort of an art to community eating. After dharma, the monks bless the congregation and food and everyone goes eat. If getting your own personal portion and you go for seconds, get a new plate/bowl each trip. Use buffet etiquette. Secondly, if you are eating family style amongst friends/family, place a serving spoon for each dish. It's a pandemic, let's not spread the funk.
I enjoy going to this temple because its spacious. Parking is a headache, but, again--go early. Dharma talks have been informative and practical. read more