At the close of the year we see that the world has made strides towards peace. The signing of peace treaties in Paris and in the USA gave hope for negotiations for peace, at least talking rather than fighting. The negative development on the world scene is the deteriorating situation between Taiwan and China. It seems ironical that it is the Chinese, who are peace loving people, have become the negative factor in realizing world peace. 

 PRESIDENTIAL ELECTIONSAND LOCAL POLITICS

Presidential elections are set for March 23, 1996, giving Taiwan's residents the first time ever to elect a president by popular vote. Incumbent President Lee Teng-Hui is leading the KMT party, and Dr. Peng Ming-Min (the so-called father of Taiwan' democracy) is the contender leading the opposition party, the Democratic Progressive Party. Neither of these candidates please Beijing, who accuses them of trying to split China and Taiwan. President Lee, though espousing reunification and claims that he does not support Taiwan's independence, says that reunification can only happen when both China and Taiwan are fully democratic and when the two economies are at the same level. Dr. Peng more openly supports Taiwan Independence, but says that we have it already. Other parties running, and independents, including the first female presidential candidate Ms. Shih Chi-Ching, are vying for supporters. Ms. Shih is a best seller author on marriage and divorce and an advocate for women's rights. She states that the ROC reportedly ranks the lowest on women's rights in Asia, and 88th out of 96 countries according to a recent international survey. 

The DPP celebrated its 9th birthday this year, after experiencing phenomenal growth over the past few years. It is a force to be reckoned with in the legislature and no longer is fighting in the streets, but has demonstrated that it is a party with vision and a concrete political platform. It celebrated by building a pyramid at the CKS Memorial Park, with five layers symbolizing its focus: strengthen national defense, ensure sovereign independence, further reform the economy, simplify government, and improve welfare programs. 

Attempts have been made to polarize the Taiwanese and the local Mainlanders and their descendants. President Lee, in an attempt to defuse such polarization came up with a new concept of "who are Taiwanese?" He said, "Those who identify with Taiwan, love Taiwan, and are willing to struggle for Taiwan, are Taiwanese." He said "we are all Chinese, as well as Taiwanese, we love Taiwan and still care for the mainland. This is the basic attitude for every effort we make." Peng, on the other hand, says we are facing several crises: national identity, sovereignty, constitutional government, economic reliance on mainland China, links between the underworld and politics, and infiltration of pro-Beijing lackeys.

Local politics has borne the brunt of much criticism, particularly the action of legislators, fighting on the floor of the legislature. The news media plays up the dramatic, however, and even those fights are becoming "ho-hum." Those who know Taiwan recognize that there is a vigorous democracy here, noisy, yes, but an increasing open political process. One source of discontent is that legislators are quick to pass the "pork-barreling bills" but move more slowly on issues that affect the general public's quality of life.

The "independence vs. reunification" controversy continues, even spilling out into the streets, as thousands marched in four cities supporting pro-independence, saying "what Beijing does is hegemonistic, Taiwan is Taiwan, China is China. We are Taiwanese." Meanwhile in Taipei, another march goes on to the tune of a different drummer, "I love China", urging reunification.

Sinologist Jean-Pierre Cabestan, director of the French Research Center in his most recent work, "The Impossible Reunification" says that the political, social, and economic gap between Taiwan and China are too great to bridge, and that reunification offers no clear advantage to Taiwan. Cabestan published several books and has written numerous articles on Chinese affairs. He contributes regularly to the bimonthly publication called "China Perspectives". 

Unrest in the KMT camp peaked as former premiere Hau Pei-Tsun and KMT vice chairman, Lin Yang-Kang accused President Lee of "ruining the party and betraying the country". They used strong words in their open letter to KMT members, calling Lee a "traitor". Both Hau and Lin were subsequently expelled from the party, and will run against Lee in the presidential elections in March. Such a serious confrontation has not occurred in Taiwan for many years. 

INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS　　　　　

In June, President Lee finally was admitted to the US, to speak to his Alma mater, Cornell University. Beijing was furious, feeling betrayed by the US. Beijing said his purpose was to internationalize the Taiwan issue, isolate China, and create two Chinas. President Lee said he would "welcome a 100-year truce with the PRC as a precursor to reunification". When will the perfect conditions be met? He said the first step would be mutual recognition of legitimacy by governments on both sides of the Taiwan Straits. While a number of countries attempt to put Taiwan on the agenda for the UN to study, and others support Taiwan for membership, the Beijing government expresses anger by holding live missile tests near Taiwan, and continued the verbal blasts by saying they will invade Taiwan if it tries to "go independent" or to split China territory. Many here in Taiwan believe this is only rhetoric, and have said it was basically a psychological warfare tactic aimed at shaking confidence of the people in Taiwan. The ROC government condemned the PRC for the missile tests and the nuclear test at Lop Nor site in Xinjiang Province. 

The Asia Wall Street Journal called on the US to send the Seventh Fleet to the Taiwan Straits to prevent China from behaving in a disruptive way in the region, aimed at frightening Taiwan voters away from freely exercising their democratic franchise by choosing their own president. A Newsweek magazine editor referred to China as a country in crisis, trying to use naked intimidation to control, if not eliminate, Taiwan's freedom of movement on the international stage. The missile tests and disruption of air and sea traffic were crude attempts to deter Taiwan from raising its international profile. Estimated damage to local fishermen due to the tests approximated US$12 million. Mainland's ICBM missile tests were not only a concern for all of Asia, even the USA, as the tests showed the potential of reaching 8,000 km even to the West Coast of the USA. Not only are the China-USA relations at a low point, the cross the straits relationships continue to sour, as Beijing makes every effort to thwart Taiwan's participation in international organizations. Even at the UN meetings, Taiwan journalists were denied the usual UN pass to attend the 50th General Assembly plenary session. They were told to check with Beijing desk for approval. This was the first time Taiwan journalists were told that press accreditation must be approved by the Beijing Mission. It will be interesting to see what attempts will be made by Beijing to interfere with the Taiwan elections in March. Beijing media attacks are now received on a monthly basis, and will continue until the elections. The three themes in the attacks are related to (1) concern for joining the United Nations, (2) Taiwan independence, (3) President Lee's policy of pragmatic diplomacy. 

Late in the year the Chinese generals sounded out the Pentagon on how they would react to a military crisis over Taiwan. The USA's reply was "nobody knows". More recent word is that the US "would not be silent" if things heated up in the Straits. Their replies underscore the fact that instability in the Taiwan Straits could be a threat to US national security interests. The top ROC de facto embassy in the USA official, Benjamin Lu, suggested that the "vague approach" is in the best interests of Taiwan.

Former Secretary of State, James Baker, said in an article published recently that the tensions in the Taiwan Straits present a more serious threat to vital American interests than the conflict in Bosnia. The Sankei Shimbun newspaper in Tokyo reported that the Taiwan Straits rates the "riskiest" region in the world heading into 1996 (ahead of North Korea, Spratly Islands, Bosnia, and the Middle East).

Meanwhile, mock invasion simulating the invasion of Kinmen is set for the eve of Taiwan's presidential elections on March 23, and is the largest of its kind in recent years. It is designed to scare voters from supporting pro-independence candidates, and challenge Lee's grip on power. Preparations for "Operation Kinmen" are already underway. Beijing has a three-part plan to force Taiwan unification negotiations on China's terms. The first is to invade Kinmen. The second is to block shipments in the straits. So far, all this flexing of military muscle has not influenced the elections. The Taiwanese have chosen whom they want in office. 

FOREIGN INVESTMENT　　　　　

In spite of its belligerent posture toward Taiwan, China is still attracting Taiwanese tourists, and investments on a grand scale. Over eight million Taiwan resident trips have been made to China since the ban was lifted, and over 20,000 enterprises have invested a total of more than US$20 billion dollars. Taiwan is China's second largest investor, behind Hong Kong. In other Asian countries Taiwan is also a heavy investor. In Vietnam, it is number one, and ranks high in Indonesia, Thailand and the Philippines. Ethnic Chinese continue to control much of South East Asia's economies, even though their numbers are usually less than 10 percent. Taiwan is opening new plants in Subic Bay, claiming to have the best location there. Subic Bay may compete with Taiwan for its plans to become the financial hub of Asia, which Hong Kong now holds. 

REGIONAL HUB　　　　　　　　

Much has been said about Taiwan becoming a regional hub, a regional financial center for this part of Asia. There seems to be two things that may be the limiting factors to making Taiwan the regional hub; namely, the financial climate and the development of the transshipment center for Asia. The financial climate needs to be changed to encourage more outside financial entities to come to Taiwan. Changes in telecommunications, transportation, and environment protection are also needed. Taiwan is beginning to liberalize banking procedures, however, even the problem of expatriates working in the system is compounded by complicated and "unfriendly" visa and resident requirements. This year, 33 multinational enterprises asked assistance in eliminating investment barriers. During the first half of the year, the government approved 198 new foreign investment projects and 335 investment increment plans, pushing foreign investment up 55 percent during this period. Not only did Japan and Singapore experience financial storms in 1995, Taiwan has its share of crises, where embezzlement, runs on banks, put the hub plan in trouble.

The second factor which could boost Taiwan's chance of becoming a regional hub is the development of the transshipment center, currently planned for Kaohsiung. This center would allow "offshore" shipping links between Taiwan and China, particularly for foreign shipping firms, and Taiwan ships registered in foreign countries. Cargo originating in Taiwan would still be hindered from direct shipping, due to the government's policy of no direct links with China. If the transshipment center is realized, Kaohsiung City may become a more important port city than Taipei in the future. The Kaohsiung director of American Chamber of Commerce in Kaohsiung says that Kaohsiung is ideal for growth. Traffic is 1000 percent better than Taipei, cost of doing business is half of Taipei, and he feels people work harder, and are more frugal than people in the cities up north. 

ECONOMY AND INDUSTRY　　　　

Taiwan two way trade with Asia, up 27 percent increased to over US$100 billion during the first 11 months of this past year. Meanwhile, cross straits trade went up 30 percent according to statistics released by the ROC Board of Foreign Trade. Taiwan exported to China a total of over $14 billion (US) worth of goods and services in 1995. At the same time Taiwan imported US$2.63 billion worth of goods from China, an increase of 84.9 percent of last year. Since Taiwan still bans direct trade, most of this trading has been handled through Hong Kong. 

Indicators of what economists call "bubble economy" show some decline, particularly in the real estate market. In spite of this, forecast for the year end is still 6.9 percent growth for 1995. More people are using plastic money; Mastercard holders increased 77 percent over the first half of the year, and spending with cards increased over 108 percent during the same period. Export sales break a new all time monthly-high in August at US$10 billion dollars. At the same time Taiwan is importing more from other countries, notably from Japan and China. Taiwan's current trade dependence on China is estimated at 14 percent. China beats Taiwan in exports to Japan and the USA. Locally, the government opened two new science parks this year in Tainan and Yunlin. Combined added work force numbers over 100,000 new jobs, providing technically intensive and less polluting working environments.

Due to high landing fees at CKS International Airport, four USA airlines have cut back the number of flights to Taiwan. At the same time local airlines have expanded flights to regional destinations, e.g. Papua New Guinea, Indonesia, and Hong Kong. Current discussions are underway to increase additional flights. 

Taiwan's labor costs are now second only to Japan in Asia, higher than Korea, and Singapore, at US$5.88/hour contrasting with China at US$0.48/hour. Annual per capita earnings in Taiwan are somewhat below Japan, Hong Kong, and Singapore, but listed as 25th in the world community (US$11,800).

New enterprises and cooperative deals emerge during the year. Taiwan and Singapore inked an investment project involving US$200 million, jointly developing a satellite system with a launch date of 1997. In Taipei a Canadian firm plans the largest shopping mall in Asia, after successfully developing the "Mall in Europe", the "Mall of America", and the "Mall in Canada". They chose Taipei as "an excellent location, fast growing economy, stable political and social environment."

Taiwan is the number one world supplier of computer notebooks, monitors, scanners, mice, keyboards and motherboards. Taiwan ranks 3rd in the world behind the US and Japan in total production of computer hardware. IBM, Apple, Compaq, and Dell all have come to Taiwan to make some of their brand name product lines. Many Taiwan computers are also sold under the name of Texas Instruments, Mitsubishi and Cannon. Its main advantage is its concentration on engineering education, and large number of overseas Chinese from all over the world, many of them educated in the USA, who come here to work. 

To compete in the fast growing information superhighway, Taiwan is spending over US$10 billion over the next six years to put high technology in every home, school, hospital, and office in the country. The backbone of this project is its National Information Infrastructure (NII). 

ENVIRONMENT　　　　　　　　　

Taiwan has experienced a side effect of the "economic miracle", namely, a very polluted environment. How bad is it? The Guardian (British newspaper) reported "Taiwan's air quality is perhaps the worst in the world, 90 percent coming from cars totalling five million on the island. Taipei is not fit for human inhabitants." It may be an exaggeration by a foreign journalist, nevertheless, it is bad! Daily weather reports include a pollution index, telling the residents how bad it is, sometimes offering advice, to stay indoors. Not only is the air polluted, beautiful beaches are reported polluted by medical wastes (syringes, bottles glass tubes, etc.). Of 60 beaches, 53 were found seriously polluted. No wonder Taiwanese travel abroad for vacations, who wants to use the beaches?

Following typhoon Ryan, dengue fever spread throughout the island, causing concern to health officials and public alike. Cleaning up piles of garbage, discarded automobiles, food and furniture, and other items not properly disposed of is not only an eyesore but also breeding grounds for the mosquitoes that spread dengue fever.

Disposal of nuclear waste continues to be a point of tension, particularly between YAMI tribal families on Lanyu (Orchid Island) and the Taipower Company. This year the islanders battled police at the waste site on their tiny island, accusing Taipower for lying to them. The local people claim that 50 of the babies born recently have birth defects due to the dumping of radioactive nuclear wastes on their soil and in the sea water around their island. Activists are calling for removal of the 100,000 barrels of wastes stored there, some of which are reported leaking. A group of aborigines brought considerable attention to their cause at the UN Working Group Meeting on Indigenous Populations in Geneva. Greenpeace representatives at the conference promised to send a group to investigate the Lanyu dump site in 1996.

During the Ebola scare in Africa earlier this year, Taiwan health authorities discovered a virus similar to Ebola (Hanta) which came to the island about that time. Hanta is spread by rats, of which there are an estimated 80 million in Taiwan. Hanta is a new strain of hemorrhagic fever, fatality rate being between 5-50 percent.

Of the 50 major rivers in Taiwan, only 15 are unspoiled. Authorities are working to clean up the rivers, but progress is slow. Latest research by local and Japanese scientists show that the fish in the Erh-jen River (in South Taiwan) contain too much dioxin to be edible. Dioxin is a highly toxic chemical, caused by burning of used metal. Current project of the EPA is to clean up 10 rivers with an estimated budget of NT$4 billion. They certainly have their work cut out for them!

CORRUPTION AND CRIME　　　　　　　

The news media majors on covering crime and corruption. One wonders whether a steady diet of this kind of reporting is helping combat it or encouraging it. The past year's reports continue to show that there is corruption in jails (e.g. some inmates beaten to death). In the military there have been uncounted deaths of young military personnel. On the seas both sides have been accused of extremely inhuman brutality to fishermen. Finally, underground loan sharks have increasingly used violence against borrowers. Bizarre events, of company selling pig feed as a "diet aid" for human consumption, smugglers bringing in heroin in fish food and spicy sauce, makes one wonder where are the normal people, living normal lives. Bank scandals involving low level clerks ripping off millions of dollars for stock market investments that brought losses to ordinary customers, rocked the public confidence in banks, and caused runs on several credit unions, farmers' associations, and regular banks. In addition, local theft cases reported to local police are largely unsolved. In fact, it is estimated that 90% of cases reported are "absorbed" by the police who lie in official reports indicating that there was no property loss. Police complain that they are overworked, understaffed, and cannot possibly follow up all the cases. 

LABOR　　　　　　　　　　　

Taiwan imports an increasing number of overseas contract workers; the largest single group (approx. 100,000) is from Thailand. The total number of foreign workers numbers about 220,000. While the government open doors for migrant workers, returnees from overseas study (Master's and PhD degree holders) are coming back to claim jobs in the higher skilled market. During the first eight months of this past year over 4,000 in this category have returned, a little less than the same period last year (1994).

Women in the work place are still receiving less pay than their male counterparts, for equivalent work. Some progress has been made this year regarding discrimination for those female workers who get pregnant or marry. Until just recently, many financial institutions required female workers to quit their jobs when they marry or become pregnant. This year has been an encouraging one for those with physical limitations, or handicapped in some way. In Kaohsiung, some of the city government offices have met 70 percent of their goal in hiring handicapped persons. Others have exceeded their goals showing good faith in hiring this potential work force.

The work week in Taiwan is still generally five and a half days, which cover 48 hours. Even though China announced the cutting back of their work week to five days (44 hours). Taiwan firms in China have not been too happy with this move, while European and North American firms seemed to accept it as usual practice, given their own country's work weeks.

YOUTH　　　　　　　　　　　　

Most Taiwanese youth study hard, are normally well adjusted and compliant with their parents. However, a growing number of youth are disillusioned with the system, and have become a problem to society, the schools, the police and their parents. Even Newsweek magazine reports on Taiwan street problems of motorcycle gangs, terrorizing pedestrians, police and disrupting traffic. Only one out of five students is admitted to the college track high schools, and then only half of those will pass the university entrance exams. Mandatory education ends with the ninth grade. 

The down side of the youth culture reported is that more children now chew betel nut, smoke cigarettes, and are overweight (3 out of 10). Police records show more juveniles are caught in inappropriate "night spots", and more involved in a series of violent crime (killing, arson) causing mayhem in the larger cities. One weekend the police rounded up over 2,000 youth after a wild melee on the streets, chasing and catching youngsters on motorscooters and cycles. 

On the upside of the youth scene, a recent survey showed that: more youth spend time in bookstores than in KTVs, a good number of youth get involved in civic events, demonstrations, earth day, etc., where they show concern for the environment and societal problems. Some feel that today there are too few good adult role models for them to emulate, looking at the TV reports of legislators fighting each other, demonstrators clashing with the police, police smashing taxi cab windows, all of which have a negative corrupting effect on the youth. No wonder the church and the leaders of the country, are calling families and institutions to provide moral guidance and spiritual development of the people in Taiwan.

Church Review . . Church Review . . . Church Review . . . 

THE PCT'S 130TH BIRTHDAY!　　　　　　　

It seemed that throughout the year celebrations and commemorations of anniversaries occurred with increasing tempo as the year came to a close. Some were happy events, some very sobering and a cause for reflection on sufferings and inhumanity to man. Those anniversaries that marked 50 years were, the nuclear bombing of Nagasaki and Hiroshima, the ending of WWII, the establishment of the United Nations, and the beginning of the rule of yet another outside government in Taiwan. Taiwanese reflected on the 100th anniversary of the beginning of Japanese rule. Finally, the PCT celebrated in various ways their 130th anniversary, reflecting and rejoicing in the growth of the church (the bringing of men and women to faith in Jesus Christ), its being rooted in this land, and the influence it has had in the democratic process of the country. 

The 130th anniversary celebration created quite a stir as over 20,000 church members joined in thanksgiving services and commemoration activities in Tainan in August. The activities included carrying a torch around the island, sports events, fireworks, concerts, panel discussions, a food fair, and a parade around a 5 km. route through the city. In the north, in October, another celebration took place in the Taipei International World Trade Center Convention Center, attended by approximately 3,000 persons. Two events planned for the same day included a worship service and communion, and an evening of music put on by the youth of the church. President Lee Teng-Hui gave some words of support to the PCT for its historic importance to the country, especially in terms of education, medical and social concerns and seeking of justice. 

An open letter appeal on the occasion of the 130th anniversary of the PCT (see Appendix I), highlighted three main points: (1) To firmly establish Taiwan's independent national standing and raise Taiwan's international status. (2) To respect the people's will, and use peaceful means to resolve the conflict between Taiwan and China. (3) To fervently preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and reshape the spirit of the people.

The theme throughout the commemorative events was "Rebuilding Taiwan's Spirituality". The headline for the big August event was "Light up Taiwan" or "Shine the Light". When the fireworks showered over the 20,000 plus audience, one could hardly miss the point. Added to this was a professional video that highlighted the theme and gave a historical review of the birth and growing pains of this historic church. 

NEW GOALS FOR THE PCT　　　　　　　　

As mentioned above, the theme of the 130th anniversary celebration was "Light up Taiwan". The around the island torch carrying run symbolized the shining of the light of the Gospel into the darkness of the evils of the country, political corruption, juvenile crime, drugs, breakdown of the family, prostitution, and physical abuse. As the society has become more democratic and wealthy, it also has become more lax in its morals and behaviour. The Church's goal for the past year and the future is to "rebuild the spirituality of the people of Taiwan". This task of reshaping the spirit of the Taiwanese, making Taiwan a place of justice, peace, and joy, is not an easy one. It will take much prayer, commitment, and hard work to realize a change in the tide of decay. We enlist the prayers and concern of our partner churches, and support of mission workers to work with us on this momentous task. 

ECUMENICAL RELATIONS　　　　　　　　　

Some firsts for the PCT were visits by General Assembly officials to and from Latin America, South Africa, and Eastern Europe. Four PCT representatives attended the 4th General Assembly of the Latin American Council of Churches held in Chile. The PCT was the only church represented from East Asia. Three other Latin American countries were also visited on this trip, and included contacts with Taiwanese congregations. 

Following a trip of several PCT delegates to Eastern Europe, a return visit was made by Bishop Hegedus and Rev. Tamas from the Hungarian Reformed Church. They were impressed by PCT's many involvements, particularly in social work, theological education and medicine. A mission agreement was drafted by both parties, and will be submitted to the 43rd General Assembly for approval.

South African interest was sparked anew by Archbishop Desmond Tutu's visit mid year, his first to Taiwan. He spoke at Tainan Theological College & Seminary, giving a series of lectures sponsored by the Shoki-Coe Foundation. In October, PCT Moderator Wu and Mrs. Wu accompanied by Associate General Secretary, Rev. William Lo, visited the Presbyterian Church of Africa. This church covers several countries of South Africa, Malawi and Zimbabwe. Future contacts and possible mission agreements are being considered. 

An informal meeting between the PCT and the China Christian Council was held in Korea in February. The results of the meeting was perhaps more relational than substance, however, cooperation in theological education and future visits were considered as possibilities for the future. Both Taiwan and China churchmen have invited each other to visit their churches. This was the second talk between CCC and PCT officials - the first one was held in Geneva in 1989. Over the past few years churches have been eager to assist in opening dialogue. The Executive Committee supports this, provided dialogue occurs in a spirit of mutuality, equality, and respect. The PCT does look forward to more ways to share with each other and the development of a working relationship. 

Ecumenical sharing with other churches hit a high point in the year with church and individual responses to the Kobe earthquake. Taiwan people were deeply moved by the loss of life and the devastation and damage done to homes and churches. Financial assistance was channelled through three of our partner churches in Japan. Other sharing included financial support for Africa, India, Cambodia, and Myanmar (Burma). 

A PRAYER FOR PEACE AT THE UNITED NATIONS　

On September 19 a prayer for peace and for entry of Taiwan into the United Nations was presented to the UN by a delegation of over 160 people from the PCT who traveled to New York. This group of clergy and laypersons joined others in a rally to demonstrate that the PCT supported the Taiwan issue and recognized that the UN is an instrument for peace. The following day they visited Washington D.C., meeting with American Institute in Taiwan former director, and several persons in the State Department. The message that Moderator Wu Ho-Lung gave stressed that the PCT had come from Taiwan to bring a word of peace and justice to the UN and to the USA, quoting from PCT's Confession of faith, "He will deliver humankind from sin, will set the oppressed free, and make them equal, that all may become new creatures in Christ, and the world His kingdom, full of justice, peace and joy." (See Appendix II for the Prayer)

ABORIGINAL REPORT　　　　　　　　　　　

At the end of the year, Rev. Mayau Kumu (Amis) was released from prison after serving over six months of a one year sentence. He was charged with violation of the assembly and demonstration law. Mayau contended that the aborigines were not treated equally under that law. Meanwhile Mr. I-Chang (Amis tribe, secretary of Aboriginal Affairs, Democratic Progressive Party) imprisoned several months ago, is still in prison on a similar charge. Four other aborigines (PCT churchmen) have been given from six months to four years prison sentences for various activist demonstrations, but have had sentences suspended temporarily. 

On Orchid Island (Lanyu) the battle continues between the Yami and the Taipower Company regarding the disposal of nuclear wastes stored on their tiny island. Over 200 Yami people came to Taipei to protest the digging of new trenches for more disposal of additional 58,000 barrels of waste until year 2,002. Results of waste already stored there are reportedly influencing the health of the Yami residents and the fish supply around the island. Activists plan more drastic demonstrations of blocking the harbor or throwing barrels into the sea to gain international awareness and concern for their plight. 

The Bunun tribe has launched the first aboriginal funded foundation named the Bunun Cultural and Educational Foundation in February. The purpose of the Foundation is to help "rebuild the lives and cultures of the aborigines". The focus of their efforts will be on prevention of exploitation by fishing, construction interests and prostitute elements which target young men, women, and children.

Amis immigrant aborigines established their first overseas church in October. The church founded in Wepener, South Africa (one hour from Johannesburg) has about eighty members. Most of the families originally went to South Africa with Taiwan agricultural teams, and following the end of the project decided to stay. Now they have their own church, Wepener Amis Church. Twelve PCT members, some of whom are relatives, flew to attend the founding celebrations.

After ten years of struggle, the aborigines of Taiwan received official government approval to use their tribal names on their identification certificates and on legal documents. This ended a fifty-year ban on the use of their names that had caused many problems related to inheritance, marriage, and other legalities. When Chinese (Han) names were given to the aborigines, sometimes even brothers were given different surnames. 

A new aboriginal Presbytery was added to the PCT this year, called the Southern Bunun. The Bunun churches are scattered from central Taiwan to the South and to the East Coast. Due to the inconvenience of travel for meetings, the original presbytery has split into three, now named the Bunun Presbytery (East Coast), Central Bunun, and Southern Bunun. This brings the total number of presbyteries to twenty. 

HIGHER EDUCATION　　　　　　　　　　　

This was a year of change in leadership in our three seminaries as new administrators were appointed: Rev. Dr. I. T. Loh, President at Tainan Theological College and Seminary, Rev. Dr. C. F. Tung, Principal at Yushan Theological College and Rev. Dr. H. S. Lin, Acting President at Taiwan Theological College and Seminary.

Student applications have increased at our PCT colleges and seminaries this year. Most dramatic change was at Yushan Theological College with nearly 100% increase. Others showed 19, 18 and 8 percent increases. It has also been reported that there has been a trend recently for more women students to be enrolled. The Presbyterian Bible College had the highest percent with 90%, Tainan showing 53%, Taiwan increasing to 63%, and Yushan maintaining a steady 50%. 

The Tainan Theological College and Seminary for the second year has invited overseas students to a one year mission study programme. This is a joint scholarship program with the PCT and the Council for World Mission. Two of this year's students come from the Pacific area, West Samoa and Tuvalu, and one from Hong Kong. Reports of last year's students (Korea and Zambia) indicated that this was an important experience in their lives and ministry.

Two other institutions of higher education have been added to the PCT recently, (1) the Galilee Mission Center and the (2) Chang Jung Technical College. The Galilee Mission Center prepares laypersons for pioneer ministry of establishing local churches in unchurched areas. It also is developing a center for working with drug problems, and a retreat and recreation center for senior citizens. The Chang Jung Technical College is currently focusing on business management and related courses. Its plans include development into a full-fledged university in the future. 

The Pine University, a special continuing education ministry of the PCT for elderly, has expanded its services this year to two aboriginal communities. Both are in the Tayal tribal mountain area, in north-central Taiwan. This brings the Pine University campuses or branches to fifteen around the island. After only six years since its beginning, it provides a vital ministry to senior citizens in meeting intellectual and social needs. 

YEAR 2000 GOSPEL MOVEMENT　　　　

On July 1, Rev. William J. K. Lo joined the General Assembly staff as Associate General Secretary for Programmes. One of his main responsibilities is to work with the Year 2,000 Gospel Movement Committee. He also has spent considerable time working with radio programming, and encouraging more religious radio involvement by church members. During the last half of the year, a handbook for the Committee was prepared giving guidelines and goals for the future. It tells the "why, what, and how" of realizing the goals of the church by the year 2,000. While the numerical goals were clear (300,000 members and 1515 churches), the more intangible goals were presented in symbolized form of a triangle with a cross in the middle. The base of the triangle represents "rebuilding the spirituality of the people", the sides represent "church growth" and "concern for the future of Taiwan". The cross in the middle refers to the sovereignty of God. Its mission is to do the work of the Kingdom of God, working within an ecumenical, global mission perspective, and doing mission in the Taiwan context in the here and now. The dynamic of the mission is "renewal and education". 

While Christian radio and TV programming has been a ministry for several church groups on Taiwan for some years, the PCT has been notably absent from this activity. However, recently, especially this past year, a sudden increase in PCT members involvement in radio and cable TV has developed. By the end of 1995, some 35 church members/leaders were involved in producing weekly programs (usually 1-2 hours each) on 17 different radio stations and 10 local cable TV networks. 

The PCT Year 2000 Gospel Movement Committee, inspired by this new activity by its members, held a "Broadcaster's Conference" in September to bring together individuals who are involved and/or interested in producing religious programming. The conference focused on producing good quality shows and talks, and networking among those already involved in producing shows. One of the challenges for the talk-shows is the "call in" questions that the speaker must address. 

Most of the church members who speak on radio or TV do so as volunteers, and the host does not charge the person or the church for being on the air. Stations need good quality programmes to fill their time slots, and are happy to have these volunteers give of their time and energy to do so. This is a great opportunity for the church to be involved in spreading the Good News! 

CHURCH AND SOCIETY (C&S)　　　　　

The C&S Committee responded to several crises during the year, notably the Kobe earthquake, fire damage at the An-Kwang Church, typhoon damage at Lan Yu (Orchid Island). Financial aid was sent to them as church members rallied to support those people in distress. 

On the political scene, the Committee prepared a message for the mass media regarding the qualifications of the first ever popular election of the president on Taiwan. A seminar was also held with two other organizations that resulted in a published brochure which carried the declaration about a "new and independent" country. 

The C&S Committee organized the delegation to the United Nations in September (referred to elsewhere in this paper). That delegation brought to the US the message that the PCT supported Taiwan's entry into the UN and that it is seeking peace in the world and in the region. Other activities that the Committee supported were: anti-nuclear demonstrations, signature campaign for "offering one's life for the defence of Taiwan", memorial of the 100 years since turn over of Taiwan to the Japanese, memorial of the Wushe incident (65 years), and the march in the south billed as "We are Taiwanese". 

EVANGELISM 　　　　　　　　　　　　

The Evangelism Committee continued to give leadership and orientation to the M.Div. students at the seminaries, particularly those about to graduate and be assigned to churches. For those young pastors in their first year or two of internship in local churches, the Committee provided special continuing education opportunities.

A new long term evangelism programme, called the "Ban-lang Personal Evangelism Movement" (Ban-Lang, literally means 10,000 people, but is a way of saying many people) has incorporated Bible Study, prayer meetings, study of church history and doctrine at the local church level. Meanwhile, the General Assembly Evangelism Committee supports the movement in publishing Bible study materials. During 1995 the Committee collected educational programme materials already found useful in local churches, and shared them with other elders and deacons. It actively shares the vision of personal evangelism with churches around the island. Eight presbyteries have joined the "Ban-lang PE Movement" thus far. 

WOMEN'S WORK 　　　　　　　　　　　

The international dimension of the women's work was evident in the number of meetings attended and supported. In February, they sent a delegate to the International Committee on World Day of Prayer in Australia. They participated in the WARC consultation on Women and Men of Reformed Tradition in Asia in New Delhi, India. They also joined a CCA Women's Desk supported project exposure programme for "AIDS and Prostitution" in Thailand and Myanmar in November. 

The first stage of developing a "Taiwan-Thailand Cooperative Ministry for Thai Migrant Workers in Taiwan" was completed this past year. This brought one Thai worker to Taiwan for forty days to survey and understand the life of the Thai migrant in Taiwan (June-July). The second phase will be to invite Thailand to send a missionary to Taiwan to work with the Thai migrant workers here. The PCT will cooperate in financial and organizational support. 

Some of the struggle for women from the PCT in attending the Fourth Women's Conference and NGO Forum in Beijing as well as the pre-conference meetings is reported as follows: 

1. November 1993, the Asia NGO pre-conference meeting held in Manila. The PCT received an invitation, but the condition was that unless we proclaimed Taiwan as part of China, we could not participate in this conference. 

2. June 1994, the second NGO pre-conference held in Jakarta. One of our people applied through the World YWCA, because she could not participate as a Taiwan delegate. 

3. June 1995, we obtained the UN registration permission and applied to Beijing but no response came. Therefore, we decided to go to Hong Kong to deliver our statement and held a press conference. (The statement is included in Appendix III)

During the past year the Women's Committee reached out to financially support the construction of a women's center building in Zambia. This is the third time the Committee has given funds to support that project within the United Church of Zambia, Women's Work Department. 

UNIVERSITY STUDENTS and YOUTH WORK 　　

This was an active year for the university students and leaders in the meetings of the World Student Christian Federation. Delegates from Taiwan attended two regional meetings (Asia Pacific Region) and also the 31st WSCF General Assembly held in Ivory Coast, Africa. This General Assembly marked the centennial of that organization. The Youth Dept. was also active internationally, as they attended meetings with partner churches and organizations (e.g. PCUSA, CWM and the Korean churches). The PCT together with CCA jointly hosted an international conference at Hsinchu with the theme, "Reading the Bible through Asian Eyes".

Locally, the university students' programme provided a Bible and theology camp, a human resource development camp, a mission camp, an aboriginal culture exposure camp, and several workshops (e.g. AIDS, pre-assembly SCM, and all-student workshop).

CHRISTIAN EDUCATION　　　　　　　　　　　

The Programme Secretary for Christian Education put out a white paper on Christian Education covering the period 1990-1995. The main thrust of the paper is to initiate a thorough evaluation of the PCT General Assembly Education Committee's programmes and to discuss the future direction of their ministry. The paper was circulated to all the presbytery education committees seeking their cooperation in carrying out research in the Sunday schools, covering areas of strengths and weaknesses, from the perspective of teachers and students (all ages); and the Sunday school materials (all ages), a four-year cycle curriculum, and teachers training programmes and guides. To assist in the whole evaluation process, a questionnaire was prepared and distributed as one attempt to secure feed back from the teachers at grass roots level.

While the Education Committee of the General Assembly is well established, the leadership realizes the very real danger of becoming stagnant and ineffective in its on going ministry. It is hoped this white paper will help stimulate concrete discussions and that the research will yield realistic, long term mission goals and effective planning. In February 1996 a panel, made up of representatives from Presbytery and General Assembly Education Committees together with an education expert, will convene to further discuss the findings of the white paper.

During the year the Committee has continued to develop its training programmes for Sunday School teachers as well as emphasizing the role of the family in the overall education process. The Lamb magazine continues to be popular and is a valuable tool in reaching into the homes. The Christian Education Centre continues to be a beehive of activity. Due to the generous heart of a church member committed to the vision of education, the Centre was able to secure new equipment and improve the computer technology. This is invaluable in the art and editing work of the curriculum department.

BIBLE TRANSLATION　　　　　　

The goal of finishing five Bible translations in 1995 fell short of completion. However, much progress was made on revision of the Old and New Testaments of the Amis language Bible, New Testament of the Bunun, New Testament of the Rukai, Proverbs of the Hakka, and a Taiwanese Bible in Chinese characters (change from a romanized script Bible).

＊APPENDIX I.
＊APPENDIX II.
＊APPENDIX III.