Nam Theun 2: Nam Theun 2 is a hydroelectric power project that takes water from a dam on the Nam Theun River and diverts it to a powerhouse on the Xe Bang Fai River. The project construction was completed and the plant became operational in 2010. One of Peep's uncles and a couple of her cousins were heavily involved in the construction of Nam Theun 2. As with most dam projects, existing settlements to be consumed by the dam reservoir had to be relocated. A total of 17 villages containing 6,300 people were relocated as part of the Nam Theun 2 project. In order to gain merit as a Buddhist, Peep's uncle organized and sponsored the construction of a temple in one of the new villages. In support of his efforts, other members of his family also became sponsors, including us.
Temple Dedication: Nearing the end of construction on the new temple, the family made the trip to the village for the temple dedication held on 29 October 2006. After an overnight stay in one of the guesthouses in the village, the ceremonies began in mid-morning with prayers and alms-giving. The main activities followed where we processed around the main prayer hall three times in a clockwise direction. Then, spires dedicated to each of the major donors were hoisted to the building's roof where they were permanently affixed in place. Each was accompanied by a monk's tote, which was filled with money offerings to the temple. Once the final spire reached the apex of the roof, it was back into the main hall for additional prayers and a baci ceremony, which concluded the dedication ceremonies.