On August 7th, 2009, Typhoon Morakot slammed into Taiwan and caused severe damage to the property and human life. The destructive force of this typhoon on humans, properties, and environment far exceeded that of “921 Earthquake” ten years ago. And the area affected is much bigger than the earthquake. Many people lost their loved ones, homes, and livelihoods instantly. Many have gone without food, water and shelter for days. We feel their loss and suffering.

“If one part of the body suffers, all the other parts suffer with it.” (1 Corinthians 12:26) As our country is experiencing the most serious flooding in fifty years, the Presbyterian Church in Taiwan, adhering to the faith and tradition of identifying with this land and its inhabitants and the experience of helping the restoration endeavor in the aftermath of “921 Earthquake,” the Church and Society Committee and the presbyteries and districts nearby, began providing relief and help to the afflicted areas immediately after the typhoon struck. Later on, the Morakot Assisting and Restoring Action Committee was established at the General Assembly level to take charge of the distribution of daily necessities and the assignment of volunteers. We appeal to all the members of the PCT, based on the faith of belonging to the Body of Jesus Christ, to participate in the ministry of relief and restoration with prayer, giving and volunteer services to bring hope and peace for the people in the afflicted areas.

“Being stewards of the earth,” is what God commissioned to the whole humankind. Yet in the last thirty years or so, the improper emphasis on economic development, and the national land planning policy, as well as the arrogance of believing in the power of technology, have created a serious ecological crisis in Taiwan. Therefore, we appeal to the government and people in Taiwan to repent and renounce the idea that we are in control of “ecological balance,” that we are forever in charge of the earth. Instead, we should be humble and learn from the whole creation, and be mindful of the renewal and redemption of human viability that nature offers. The earth is our mother, given by God. Only when we learn to treat God’s creation with humility and respect, can we and our children avoid the counterattack of nature and reside peacefully and comfortably on this God-given beautiful island – Taiwan.

The Lord is merciful and will not reject us forever. He may bring us sorrow, but his love for us is sure and strong. (Lamentations 3:31-32)

The Rev. Leonard Tsung-jeng Lin,
Moderator of the 54th General Assembly

The Rev. Andrew T. C. Chang,
General Secretary