Thai Buddhism has no particular day of the week when Thais are supposed to make temple visits. Nor is there anything corresponding to a mass over which a monk presides. Instead Thai Buddhists go to a temple (or Wat) whenever they feel like it. At the temple Thai people will offer traditional symbols of respect, such as lotus buds, incense and candles, at the various alters. They may offer food to the temple monks or simply listen meditatively to the monks chanting. Visitors may also seek counsel from individual monks. Most Thai people relax immediately on entering a temple compound, absorbing strength from the quiet, supportive environment.
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