Taiwan Ecumenical Forum
The Right to Self- Determination and the Missionary Role of the Church
16-18 April 2026
Changhua Christian Hospital International Education and Training Centre
About Taiwan
Located at the heart of East Asia, Taiwan is a dynamic island nation where breathtaking natural landscapes meet cutting-edge urban innovation. Often referred to as “the beautiful island”, its geography is defined by a dramatic contrast between the rugged peaks of the Central Mountain Range and its bustling, high-tech western plains.
Geography and Scale
With a land area of approximately 36,197 square kilometers, Taiwan is a compact yet influential territory. To put its size into perspective, it is about 18 times larger than the island of Mauritius. Despite its relatively small footprint, Taiwan supports a massive population of over 23.2 million people, making it one of the most densely populated regions in the world.
A Global Powerhouse
Today, Taiwan is a global economic leader, serving as the indispensable hub for the world’s semiconductor industry and a beacon of digital democracy. Its vibrant cultural tapestry, a seamless blend of Indigenous heritage, traditional customs, and modern liberal values makes it a unique society that is deeply rooted in history yet focused firmly on the future.
About Presbyterian Church of Taiwan (PCT)
The Presbyterian Church in Taiwan (PCT) is the largest and oldest Protestant denomination in Taiwan. It is widely recognised not only for its religious influence but also for its profound impact on Taiwan’s modernisation, language preservation, and democratic development.
About Taiwan Ecumenical Forum (TEF)
1. Geopolitical Context
The forum is set against the backdrop of Taiwan’s challenged political status and military threats from China. It frames Taiwan’s pursuit of justice and peace as a “critical historical moment” that requires international attention.
2. Self-Determination as a Theological Right
Self-determination is not just a political concept, but a fundamental human right rooted in biblical values of dignity and freedom. It connects Taiwan’s experience to other marginalised groups, such as Dalit and Pasifika communities, who resist colonial legacies and structural injustice.
3. The Role of the Church
- Prophetic Witness: Speaking truth to power and standing with threatened communities.
- Moral Responsibility: Recognising Taiwan’s struggle as a moral and spiritual concern, rather than just a secular geopolitical issue.
- Solidarity: Building international bridges through prayer, advocacy, and “walking together” with the Presbyterian Church in Taiwan (PCT).
4. Call to Action
The forum calls on global churches to renew their commitment to Taiwan, uphold the right to self-determination, and support suffering communities with courage, faith, and hope.
Key take aways of the 3-day forum.
The 2026 Taiwan Ecumenical Forum, held from April 16 to 18 at the Changhua Christian Hospital, focused on “The Right to Self-Determination and the Missionary Role of the Church in the Geopolitical Context of Taiwan.”
The conference opened with a theological foundation, featuring keynote addresses on divine sovereignty, Dalit community struggles, and Pasifika perspectives.
The second day transitioned into the specific geopolitical challenges facing Taiwan, including contributions from prominent figures like Taiwan Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao and discussions on promoting sovereign status and the mission of local churches.
The final day, themed “Walking with Taiwan in the Journey of Justice and Peace,” concluded with contextual Bible studies, panel sessions with international partner churches, and the formal confirmation of a communal communiqué, reinforcing a global ecumenical commitment to self-determination and peace.
Reflections: Taiwan Ecumenical Forum 2026
Attending the Taiwan Ecumenical Forum
(TEF) at the Changhua Christian Hospital provided a profound look into the intersection of faith, geopolitics, and human rights. My experience can be categorised into four primary areas of growth:
1. Strengthening International Ecumenical Ties
A primary objective and benefit of this forum was the opportunity to solidify existing partnerships and forge new ones.
- Consolidating Global Ties
The forum served as a vital platform to deepen my relationship with the Council for World Mission (CWM), the World Council of Churches (WCC), and the World Communion of Reformed Churches (WCRC).
Rev. Dr. Jooseop KEUM, CWM General Secretary
- Expanding the PCM Network
I successfully leveraged this gathering to “enlarge the PCM network,” making new strategic connections with global church leaders and partners that will be essential for future collaborative missions.
Ecumenical & Interreligious Relations
Ecclesia & Ecumenical Ministries
Dr. Natalie LIN, CWM Moderator & Rev.
Jyh-Hong PANG, PCT General Secretary
Rev. Dr. Kenneth MTATA, WCC Programme Director for Public Witness & Diakonia
2. Understanding the Intersection of Faith and Advocacy
The forum challenged the notion of church neutrality in the face of injustice.
- Prophetic Witness
I learned to view the “Missionary Role” not just as traditional outreach, but as a commitment to speaking truth to power. - Self-Determination as a Right
I gained a deeper theological understanding of self-determination as a fundamental human right rooted in biblical values of dignity and freedom, rather than just a secular political goal.
3. Geopolitical Literacy & Global Solidarity
Engaging with high-level perspectives, including those from Vice President Bikhim Hsiao, provided a masterclass in modern diplomacy.
- Taiwan’s Global Role
I gained a nuanced understanding of Taiwan’s position as a “Digital Democracy” and the critical historical moment it currently faces. - Shared Struggles
Connecting Taiwan’s experience with the struggles of the Dalit and Pasifika communities highlighted the universal need for churches to resist colonial legacies and structural injustice.
4. Institutional Impact & Modernisation
The visit to the Changhua Christian Hospital (CCH) and learning about the Presbyterian Church of Taiwan (PCT) demonstrated the power of institutional strength.
- Social Architecture
I observed how the church acts as a guardian of cultural identity, specifically through language preservation (Taiwanese Hokkien) and advocating for Indigenous land rights. - Holistic Mission
Seeing the scale of the PCT’s medical and educational network provided a blueprint for how a “contextualised faith” can lead to tangible national development.
Upcoming Global Engagements Sought by the Moderator
1. “I Love Taiwan Mission” (ILT) Youth Exchange
Dates: July 2-16, 2026.
- Theme: “Resilient Taiwan.”
- Action Item: The application deadline for this program is May 15, 2026.
- Logistics: The PCT typically covers local expenses (food, lodging, and transport) during the program, while participants handle their own airfare.
- Focus: Cross-cultural exchange and youth leadership development in collaboration with the PCT.
2. World Council of Churches (WCC) Reconnection
- Current Focus: The WCC is currently emphasising “Healing Land, Healing Communities” and transition leadership.
- Opportunity: Reconnecting now aligns well with their 2026 strategic planning phase, which will guide the communion’s mission for the next seven years.
Reconnection : Strategic engagement to reintegrate with the global ecumenical body and align with current international mission priorities.
3. PCUSA Presbyterian Youth Triennium (PYT)
Dates: July 24-27, 2028.
- Location: Louisville, Kentucky (Kentucky International Convention Center).
- Theme: “As If We Were Dreaming.”
- Focus: Participation in the youth gathering of the PCUSA to strengthen international ties.
4. Strategic Partnership
Development
- Church-to-Church Partnership Agreement with PCT: Establishing a formal partnership agreement with the Presbyterian Church in Taiwan (PCT) focusing on mutual evangelism, leadership training, scholarships, and social justice initiatives.
Final Reflection
Beyond the theological and political discourse, the 2026 TEF was a masterclass in “Walking Together.” By integrating the PCM network into this global movement for justice and peace, I return with more than just knowledge, I return with a strengthened, global community of friends and allies.
Words of Thanksgiving and Appreciation
To My Beloved Spouse and Children, I want to express my deepest gratitude to my family for your unwavering support and patience during my time in Taiwan. Your encouragement from afar provided the strength I needed to engage fully in this mission. While I was physically away in Changhua, your love was my constant anchor. Thank you for making the sacrifices at home that allowed me to represent PCM on this global stage.
To the Presbyterian Church of Mauritius (PCM)
To my brothers and sisters in the PCM, thank you for the trust and mandate to represent our church at the 2026 Taiwan Ecumenical Forum. This experience has been transformative. By engaging with the WCC, CWM, and WCRC, I have been able to “enlarge the PCM network” in ways that I believe will bear much fruit for our future missions. Your prayers were felt throughout every session, and I return eager to share how our small island’s voice can join the global chorus for justice and self-determination.
To the Presbyterian Church in Taiwan (PCT)
My heartfelt thanks go to the PCT and the staff at the Changhua Christian Hospital for your extraordinary hospitality and organisation. You have shown me the true meaning of a “holistic mission.” Your courage in advocating for the selfdetermination of the Taiwanese people, while simultaneously serving as a guardian of indigenous rights and cultural identity, is an inspiration to the global church. Thank you for teaching me what it means to “walk together” in prophetic witness. May our churches continue to grow in solidarity and faith.
Closing Statement
As I conclude this report on the 2026 TEE I am reminded that while geography may separate us, the call for dignity, peace, and the right to self-determination unites us all.
“To God be the glory for the things He has done.”
Mr. Douglas NELSON
Moderator
Presbyterian Church of Mauritius
21.04.2026