Religion in Thailand is very important in the lives of its people, and long-time senior monks are highly revered. In fact, it is not uncommon to witness the images of these monks adorning the walls of various homes and businesses as a show of respect. In many of Thailand’s cities, towns and villages, the community temple (wat) serves as the heart of both religious life and social interaction. Holidays in the Buddhist calendar, particularly those in which the moon is full, bring thousands of people together to pay homage to Buddha and give alms to monks as a way to merit and bring favor on them.