wfn.org | Taiwan Churches "Smile" for Children's Education and

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

Growth
Taiwan Church News 2637, September 15, 2002
Reported by Hsu Wen-long. Translated and rewritten by David
Alexander

   The Longevity Mountain Presbytery of the Presbyterian Church
in Taiwan (PCT) held a seminar on religious education on
September 8th to help its 72 congregations consider what
educational ministries were most needed in their own
neighborhoods. The Rev. Mr. Hwang Su-long (Ng Su-liong), head of
the presbytery's education committee, said, "In three years of
his ministry, Jesus trained the apostles. He commissioned them to
preach the gospel, baptize new believers, and teach everyone.
Today's churches often ignore the teaching ministry.  If we want
more people to enjoy the grace of God, experience abundant life
and serve in ministry, we must reflect on our current practices."

   Workshops on child, adult and family education were held.  In
each of these fields one congregation presented its current
practice and experience.  Though children's and adults' religious
education needs might be met by the church alone, it was felt
that assisting children to grow and mature could not be done
without a firm foundation of family and church cooperation.
   The Rev. Dr. O Tiong-beng (Hu Chung-ming), pastor of Tek-seng
(Te-sheng) Presbyterian Church in Kaohsiung City, said, "If
children grow in a world of friendship, they learn to care. But
when they grow up surrounded by violence, many may become fearful
of everything."  He quoted Confucius, saying "Human beings have
two great problems: How to organize a government and how to teach
children."   He encouraged all present to pay careful attention
to the growth and development of the young.
   Dr. O used the English acronym SMILE as a model for family
centered religious education.  Attention must be paid to the
Spiritual, Moral, Intellectual, Leadership and Emotional aspects
of every child's development.
   The education committee's next seminar will be on Transforming
the Traditional Sunday School.	It will be led by the Rev. Mr.
Tan Beng-chi (Chen Ming-chih) and will take place at Ren-wu
Presbyterian Church in Kaohsiung County. Participation open to
all who are interested in the topic.

For more information: Hwang Su-long  vn506071@ms5.tisnet.net.tw
		      O Tiong-beng tsc1964@ms59.hinet.net
		      Tan Beng-chi bengchi@ms2.hinet.net
		      Ren Wu Presbyterian Church
zwpct50@mxtpa.biglobe.net.tw