Every Lunar New Year for the past 14 years, a Southern California Buddhist temple has displayed what it calls the “10,000 Buddha Relics.” According to temple leaders, this display includes nearly a million relics — including a tooth and finger bone of the Buddha. In Buddhism, relics are believed to be blessings from the Buddha and other enlightened beings that hold the power to heal and bring peace. They are also said to grow and multiply. Scientific testing on these relics have been scarce and inconclusive. But many Buddhists say they are not concerned about authenticity; to them, it's simply a matter of faith.

A group of Buddhist monks is set to finally reach Washington, D.C., on foot, completing a trek from Texas that captivated the country. The monks say their aim is to promote mindfulness and finding inner peace. Their simple message has resonated in the U.S. as a welcome respite from conflict and political divisions. Thousands have gathered across the South to watch the monks. Millions more have followed them online. The monks plan to mark the last days of their ‘Walk for Peace’ with outdoor appearances at Washington National Cathedral on Tuesday and the Lincoln Memorial on Wednesday.