The Cambodian Society of Rhode Island and Khmer-Americans celebrate the B.E.2553 Ox New Year on April 11, 2009 away from home, Cambodia.
The Cambodian Society of Rhode Island is a local non-profit organization established by the Cambodian refugees, who first arrived in the state in the late 1970s and early 1980s. For the past 25 years, CSRI has been mostly self-sufficient. The organization receives less or no funds from federal, state and/or local government. |
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| Devotees receive Buddhist merits as Rhode Island-based Wat Dhammagosnaram abbot Uddom Satha Chea Chhorm and other Buddhist clergies offer the blessings. |
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| Rice and monetary offierings to the Buddhist monks indoor. In Cambodia, the Buddhist monks make alms rounds in the morning outdoor. The tradition has been passed down the historic line from the Lord Buddha Himself. |
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Local artists perform traditional Chhaiyam dance to welcome crowds. |
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The Cambodian Society of Rhode Island's 2-year term president-elect Rath, Sarin welcomes Buddhist devotees, participants, crowds and expresses appreciations to the Buddhist monks, volunteers and some local business sponsors. |
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| Family listens attentively to the chanting and blessings of the Buddhist monks. |
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Young couple offer money to help the ceremony. |
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New year is a time of plenty with food in Khmer tradition. |
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