wfn.org | American Church Supports Taiwan's Admission to World

[Taiwan Church News <pctpress@ms1.hinet.net>]

Health Association
Taiwan Church News 2675, June 8, 2003
Reported by Li Yi-shin. Translated and rewritten by David
Alexander

   The storm of SARS has focused the attention of many people on
Taiwan's  international isolation. The government has responded
with a proposal for a popular referendum on the issue of this
nation's entrance into the World Health Association. Local NGO's
have joined the discussion, lending their strength to the
movement. And this week the Reformed Church in America (RCA),
which has been a close mission partner of the Presbyterian Church
in Taiwan (PCT) for 50 years, will vote on an overture of support
for Taiwan at it's General Synod.  The motion will call for the
church to send letters supporting Taiwan to the offices of the
President of the United States and the Secretary General of the
United Nations.
   Hearing the news of the RCA's proposed action, PCT Associate
General Secretary Lim Chong-cheng said, "This act is more than
just a testimony to the deep relationship between two churches'
headquarters; it demonstrates support all the way to local
congregations in each country."
   He added that Taiwan's medical scholars have a difficult time
being heard internationally.  A wider audience for local medical
knowledge, both in Asia and worldwide, would be beneficial for
all.  The World Health Organization is the most ideal forum, but
Taiwan has been blocked there by selfish attitudes from China,
which opposes Taiwan's participation.
   In recent weeks the PCT has written to 23 partner churches
overseas regarding the SARS situation here, asking for prayers
and support.  The letter included an appeal that churches write
to their governments, asking support for Taiwan's entry into the
WHO.  The Taiwanese Congregations Association of the Presbyterian
Church USA responded with letters to their local representatives
in the US Congress.

For more information: Lim Chong-cheng  <leonard@mail.pct.org.tw>

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