May 24, 2010
Buddhist Monks, Neighbors Discuss Vandalism at Rochester TempleRochester, MN -- Rochester citizens visited with monks at the Cambodian Buddhist Temple here yesterday to talk about recent instances of vandalism at the temple.
In recent months, the temple's mailbox has been destroyed four times and its contents stolen; 20 solar-powered lights have been stolen; and five attempted break-ins have been thwarted after monks challenged the vandals and scared them away.
In the spring of 2009, the words "Jesus Saves" were spray-painted in the temple's driveway, flowers were pulled up and stomped on, and several outdoor lights were smashed.
At the meeting, three monks -- Chhan Aun, Sokhea Sreng, and Ouk Sim -- explained that the temple has suffered repeated vandalism and harassment, such as threatening late night telephone calls, since it opened in SE Rochester.
Originally located in downtown southwest Rochester, the temple relocated to 29th Street SE in 2003. It serves more than 500 Cambodian families in Rochester and throughout southeast Minnesota.
The monks said their main response to the vandalism has been to say loving-kindness prayers for the vandals, wishing that they have happiness and peace in their hearts.
Practical Ideas
Practical ideas to stop the attacks were also discussed such as fluent English-speaking citizens helping the temple's monks -- none of whom speak English -- communicate with their neighbors who live around 29th Street and Marion Road SE.
Language translation is not the only need; cultural translation also is needed.
The Cambodian monks are still learning English, as well as adapting to American culture.
Therefore, to cover both needs, two-person "language and cultural translation teams" could facilitate meetings between the temple's monks and their local neighbors. One member of the team, such as a bilingual Cambodian immigrant, could provide language translation, while the other, a native U.S. citizen, could provide the "cultural translation."
Another idea discussed was for the temple to work with local English-speaking friends of the temple, and the Crime Prevention Unit of the Rochester police, to help establish a "Neighborhood Watch" program to increase the safety not only of the temple but of all the homes and buildings in that neighborhood.
A June 3 meeting at the temple including monks and lay members of the temple; local neighbors who are concerned; and the Rochester Diversity Council is planned to discuss next possible steps.
The Sunday afternoon meeting was organized by the Rochester Meditation Center, a six-year-old group that has collaborated with the temple over the years.
Here is an article about the Buddhist temple:Also, two Rochester Post-Bulletin articles about the recent vandalism:
Buddhist Temple Heightens Security After Vandalism
More Vandalism at Rochester Buddhist TempleIf you are interested in learning more about the temple, please contact its Secretary, Synat Om, at synatom@yahoo.com, or Doug McGill at the Rochester Meditation Center, doug@mcgillreport.org.
Monks at the Cambodian Budhist temple meet with Rochester citizens. From left, Chhan Aun; Al Lun (back to camera); Sokhea Sreng; Ouk Sim; Doug McGill.
Rochester citizens discussing temple vandalism with the monks.
Touring the temple after the discussion with the monks.
