Cambodian Buddhist Society of Oregon

I love coming to temple here, but I don’t make it out often enough. I am not 100% sure, but I think it may be one of the only (if not only) Cambodian temples in the area. Coming from a mixed ethnic background, I did not have a lot of exposure to my Cambodian culture and customs. I enjoy coming here because I feel like I get to experience a piece of my heritage and I always feel welcomed (even though i can’t speak a lick of the language. Boo on me).
Every year they celebrate the new years here and it’s just fun to come and partake in the activities. The food is always delicious. Most recently, I was at temple to celebrate the 100 day passing of my Grandpa. I was able to participate in the ceremony involving the monks where we pray as they walk by and we offer rice which we place into their jar. This is all new to me, but being allowed to be involved with the processes was beautiful. Unfortunately, the same day as the ceremony an unbelievable incident occurred. Someone stole my aunts money and cell phone out of her wallet when she forgot it in the bathroom. We were at temple. really? Who does that. I pray for that individual and hope that they were in dire need to do something so despicable on a day we are paying our respects to our elder. Disgusting. I was told this was very unusual to occur at temple and it was probably just her luck that day. However, be careful with your personal belongings, just as you would any where else.
If you are interested in learning more about the Cambodian culture and buddhist religion, I encourage you to come by during New Years. It’s a great experience and fun to learn about new cultures.

Feel transported out of Portland.
A temple with the lying Buddha reminded me of Kushinagar, India.
Friendly people introducing themselves and welcoming me. Group of women sitting around preparing food for their upcoming Cambodian New Year. Three children running in the back playing tag. A main temple currently under construction. You can almost smell the concrete in the air.
One gets the sense of it as a family local temple that had made an effort to pass down its Cambodian traditions to its children.

Didn’t want to drive down to The City of Turner (where Thai temple located). I just needed a little peace, quiet, and meditation time. Found the Cambodian Buddhist Temple only 4 miles away from my house (Been living in OR for over 2 years, just learned about this temple a few weeks ago).
NICE & PEACEFUL! :)