3132 Edition
March 5~11, 2012
Church Ministry News

Reported by Sam Lee

Written by Lydia Ma

Rev. Chen Chi-ying from Vienna Taiwanese Presbyterian Church was recently invited by Vienna Fo-Guang Shan Monastery for an interreligious dialogue. Chen, a PCT missionary pastoring Taiwanese residents in Vienna, gave an overview of the history of Christianity in Taiwan and PCT’s history, ministries, and mission strategies. This dialogue that took place on February 16, 2012, concluded with both sides agreeing to have more exchanges in the near future to further mutual understanding.

Commenting on the opportunity to dialogue with this international Chinese Mahayana Buddhist monastic order based in Taiwan, Chen said that this was the first time such a dialogue between both parties had been arranged and many monks were eager to hear him speak and learn more about Christianity.

He added that dialogue with Buddhist leaders in Europe in the future may offer a rare opportunity to understand how Buddhists do missions in societies with predominantly Christian cultures and traditions in Europe. Fo-Guang Shan Monastery has various local chapters in Austria, Germany, France and other European countries.

During this meeting, Chen and Buddhist leaders shared with each other the basic tenets of Buddhism and Christianity and their perspectives on life and social issues. Buddhist leaders also elaborated on how they applied Buddhist teachings and perspectives in their daily lives. It was a cordial and enjoyable meeting for Chen, who added that both parties expressed a desire to continue this dialogue in the future.

This exchange was made possible and arranged by Pan Sheng-yu, a youth at Chen’s church who has been attending a Christian life application course offered by the church. Pan is also interested in meditation and Buddhist sutra and he arranged this meeting in hopes that PCT pastors can get acquainted with Buddhist monks and both sides can dialogue and exchange ideas.