On a Saturday afternoon the largest Cambodian Buddhist temple in Fresno is alive with color and movement.
Bursts of Cambodian folk music cut through the chatter of volunteers criss-crossing the Budhasasanac Rangsey Temple grounds under the sweltering afternoon sun.
The musicians have taken refuge under the shade to practice for their performance.
In between songs, they watch as workers carry chairs, fabrics, and push carts filled with water bottles – all of it bound for the Holy Water Blessing. It’s part of a special ceremony to inaugurate the new temple abbot, or head monk.
