!UPDATE! 11/11/2007 Mendocino Temple of Kwan Tai (houses)

Note about the term Joss House:

In California and throughout many parts of the world, the old Taoist temples are referred to as "Joss Houses". It is thought that this term is from the Latin root word Deuos for God... hence Joss House is Deuos House, the house where the Gods are.

During the gold rush era in California this term was sometimes used in a disrespectful way. Although it is not a derogatory term now, it is perferable to call each Temple by it's proper name, and to give each place of worship the respect it deserves. Thus the Mendocino Joss House is properly called Mo Dai Miu, the Temple of Kwan Tai. Although this site uses the term Joss House, in all cases it is preferable to call each Temple by it's individual name. -editor.

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