As a result of witnessing the killing fields in Cambodia, this former monk suffered a stroke and lost his ability to speak. Here he offers rice into the bowl of each monk, which is a ritual offering performed when somebody in the community dies. The tattoos on his arms are written in Hindi and Pali and were done with the belief that they would strengthen and protect his body from guns and bombs.

Sanghikaram Wat Khmer, Lynn, Mass.

A lay Buddhist listens and chants with monks during the Kathina ceremony.

Triratanaram Temple, North Chelmsford, Mass.

A teenage "novice" takes out the temple's trash after the Kathina ceremony.

Triratanaram Temple, North Chelmsford, Mass.

Ven. Thon So Paon receives many offerings from lay Buddhists during the Kathina ceremony.

Sanghikaram Wat Khmer, Lynn, Mass.

A young girl offers incense in front of an altar filled with representations of the Buddha's body speech and mind.

Sanghikaram Wat Khmer, Lynn, Mass.

A mother and her two daughters rise together after a long ceremony. Behind them are huge paintings that depict the life story of Shakyamuni Buddha.

Sanghikaram Wat Khmer, Lynn, Mass.

A nun from Cambodia prays.

Sanghikaram Wat Khmer, Lynn, Mass.

Ven. Tim Nhol, 70 years old, meditates inside his room.

Sanghikaram Wat Khmer, Lynn, Mass.

Nuns pray together at the temple.

Sanghikaram Wat Khmer, Lynn, Mass.

Lay Buddhists pray together at the temple.

Sanghikaram Wat Khmer, Lynn, Mass.