Taiwan Church News
3183 Edition
February 25-March 3, 2013
General Assembly News

Reported by Lin Yi-ying

Written by Lydia

The Control Yuan recently reproved the Ministry of Justice and the Taipei Prison for failing to provide former President Chen Shui-bian with adequate medical care. It also released a public video account of Chen’s current physical condition. Revelations about the state of the former President’s health led to public uproar in Taiwan.

Concern for the well-being of the former President prompted PCT General Secretary Andrew Chang, Yang Chi Chuan Foundation director Yang Liu hsiu-hua, and Tainan Legislator Chen Tang-shan to seek permission to visit Chen Shui-bian at Taipei Veteran’s Hospital and their request was granted. After visiting the former President, Chang commented that, “Former President Chen’s physical condition is worrisome. Not only does his right hand tremble, he also stutters whenever he speaks.” Chang added that those who accompanied him also prayed with Chen Shui-bian and asked for God’s mercy, grace, and healing so that the former President would get well and be released soon.

“A former Taiwanese President has been imprisoned for more than 4 years. He used to be healthy, but now he is ill. We are indeed worried about his well-being,” said Chang. He added that though Chen Shui-bian’s health wasn’t good, Chen neverthelessinquiredabout the well-being of former PCT General Secretary C.M. Kao, who had been hospitalized recently due to a minor cerebral hemorrhage. Chang gave a brief update of Kao’s condition and encouraged Chen Shui-bian to take good care of himself.

In his prayer for the former President, Chang asked God to strengthen Chen’s faith so that he would trust God completely. Chang told Chen that God listens to people’s prayers, and since Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life, therefore, Jesus is able to set people free. Furthermore, there is abundant life in Jesus Christ and only Christ can give eternal life and hope to President Chen.

When Yang led Chen Shui-bian in prayer, she asked God for mercy and healing. She told Chen that as long as he confessed with his mouth and believed in his heart, God would listen to his prayers according to his faith. Yang later underscored that if only the Ma administration would grant Chen medical parole, she already had a place prepared for Chen where he could rest and get well. Chen appeared deeply moved and thanked her for her kindness.