The Journey of Phat Son Temple – Buddha mountain Center (BMC): Roanoke’s First Buddhist Temple Welcomes All
First meeting group at Marriott Hotel Hall 12-10-2017
The History of Phat Son Temple
Buddhism has become well-known and embraced in the United States, and Roanoke, a small area in Virginia, is no exception. Despite its relatively small Asian and Vietnamese community, there has long been a need for a temple where Vietnamese Buddhists can learn and practice the teachings of Buddha.
In their search for guidance and support, some Vietnamese Buddhists turned to Dong Hung Temple in Virginia Beach. They approached the Buddhist monks there, requesting their assistance in establishing a temple in Roanoke. However, it wasn’t until 2013 that their efforts gained traction.
In 2013, Ven. Thich Chuc Do made his first visit to Roanoke to meet with Buddhist members and discuss the establishment of a Vietnamese Buddhist group. Unfortunately, due to his commitments in building the Dong Hung temple in Virginia Beach, he was unable to dedicate the time required to start the group at that time.
It wasn’t until the fall of 2017 that two students of Ven. Thich Chuc Do reignited the desire to establish a Buddhist group in Roanoke. Finally, on December 10, 2027, Phat Son Dao Trang was established as the name of the Buddhist Group. Their first gathering and practice took place at the hall of Fairfield Marriott hotel near Plantation Rd. This was followed by two more gatherings and practices at the same location in February and May of 2018.
The Birth of Phat Son Temple – Buddha Mountain Center
On July 24, 2018, Phat Son Temple – Buddha Mountain Center was officially established at 5535 Florist Rd, Roanoke VA 24012. Ven. Thich Chuc Do, the founder and spiritual leader, played a crucial role in making this vision a reality. The temple building was converted from a previous office space that was up for sale.
The grand opening of the temple took place on September 9, 2018. The temple was blessed by many senior Buddhist monks from out of state, and numerous Buddhist followers from Roanoke and the surrounding areas joined in the opening ceremony.
In the spring of 2019, the temple imported a 4-feet-tall wooden Shakya Muni Buddha statue, a 14-feet-tall marble stone Kwan-yin, two 10-feet-tall granite stone lanterns, and various other items to display at the temple. However, due to limited space and a lack of parking lots, there was no room to build a Buddha Hall or accommodate young groups and other classes.
In October 2022, Phat Son Temple purchased a 2.6-acre vacant land on Oakland Blvd, Roanoke, with the intention of building a new temple. The site plan for the new temple was approved by the Board of Supervisors of Roanoke County in June 2023.
Currently, the master monk and the Phat Son Temple – Buddha Mountain Center are actively involved in fundraising efforts to bring the new temple to life. Their dedication and commitment to the project are unwavering.
Expanding Services and Welcoming All
In January 2024, Ven. Thich Chuc Do expressed his desire to offer services for those who speak English. As a result, in March 2024, the Buddha Mountain Center Sangha (also known as BMC Sangha) was established. On April 14, 2024, the first English service of the BMC Sangha took place at Phat Son Temple.
It’s important to note that Phat Son Temple serves all people, regardless of their religious beliefs. The temple is dedicated to providing a place for individuals from Roanoke and the surrounding areas to learn and practice the teachings of Buddha, promoting harmony and happiness in their lives.
The journey of Phat Son Temple – Buddha Mountain Center is a testament to the perseverance and determination of the Vietnamese Buddhist community in Roanoke. With continuous support from the community and beyond, the temple will continue to flourish and provide a sanctuary for spiritual growth and enlightenment.
Join us at Phat Son Temple – Buddha Mountain Center and embark on a meaningful journey towards inner peace and self-discovery.
Below: Photos of: Master Monk Thich Chuc Do (Thay Chuc Do), Lunar new year of 2024, Tom and his friends in 2019, Grand Opening day group photo.
New Buddha Mountain Center – Phat Son Temple Master site plan rendering
