Buddhist Temple a Blessing for Homestead, Fla.

January 20, 2008

Author: SUZETTE LABOY

Source: ajc.com

Wire Service: AP

http://www.ajc.com/travel/content/travel/southeast/fl_stories/2008/01/17/TRhomestead_0120.html

Between the alligator-infested Florida Everglades and the craziness of Miami Beach lies a peaceful center surrounded by tomato and fruit farms.

Wat Buddharangsi, a Thai Buddhist temple, sits on five acres in the town of Homestead, a short drive from Miami. To get there, you have to take the miles-long roads just off U.S. 1 that surround dozens of farm and fruit trees, dominated by immigrants who work the fields.

Across the corner is one house with the American flag waving in the light breeze, life-size statues of soldiers standing in the front yard.

For several years, though, the area has been visited by Buddhist followers seeking a serene environment to pray and meditate.