In Buddhism, there are two ways to show respect to the Buddha.

The first is by offering food, clothing, a place to live and practice, and medicines--called the Four Requisites--to the Sangha of monks. In the Pali language, this giving is called dana. There are three types of dana: by the offering of the Four Requisites; by passing on Dhamma, or the teachings of the Buddha; and by forgiveness, such as in the practice of metta (or loving-kindness).

The second way to show respect to the Buddha is by following his teachings through the practice of meditation, such as by mindfully following one's breath. The Buddha taught that one who shows respect in these two ways can expect pleasant results in this and future lives.

Monks earn no salary.

They depend entirely upon the generosity of lay supporters for their every material need—for every meal, for a place in which to live, for the maintenance and improvement of the temple, for the means to travel in order to teach and support the community, for receiving medicines and health care.

Wat Lao Buddhovath of Rhode Island (WLBRI) is a nonprofit organization and all donations are tax-deductible as allowed by U.S. law. All donations go exclusively toward the support of WLBRI, except those fees (about 5-6%) required by processing and administrative elements.