The brightly painted temple nestled in the farmlands of Fauquier County has been a beacon to thousands of American Buddhists for decades, beckoning devout daily visitors and once-a-year pilgrims alike through its soaring red front gate.
But in recent months, the message coming from Wat Lao Buddhavong has not been one of welcome for some devoted members. Instead, they have received letters telling them not to set foot on the temple grounds — or else they face arrest.
