Wat Thormikaram: A beacon of faith and culture for Cambodian refugees in Rhode Island
Wat Thormikaram, located in Providence, Rhode Island, holds the distinction of being the oldest Cambodian Buddhist temple in the United States. Established in the early 1980s by the Venerable Maha Ghosananda, a revered Cambodian spiritual leader and genocide survivor, the temple became a sanctuary for Cambodian refugees resettling in Rhode Island. Tipitaka
Initially set up in a modest tenement on Hanover Street, the temple provided spiritual guidance and a sense of community for those who had fled the Khmer Rouge regime. In 1997, a fire damaged the original building, leading to the construction of a new worship hall named in honor of Ghosananda. This new hall continues to serve as a cultural and religious hub for Cambodian Buddhists in the area. Tipitaka
Over the years, Wat Thormikaram has played a crucial role in preserving Cambodian traditions and fostering a sense of unity among Cambodian Americans in Providence. The temple hosts various cultural and religious events, including the annual Pchum Ben festival, which honors ancestors and brings the community together. Providence Journal
Today, Wat Thormikaram stands as a testament to the resilience and cultural pride of the Cambodian community in Rhode Island, continuing its mission to provide spiritual support and preserve cultural heritage for future generations.