Collaborating to address societal and environmental needs

Oct 04, 2024

TAIWAN: Archbishop Julian Leow recently visited Tzu Chi in Taiwan, accompanied by Fr Andrew Manickam OFM Cap (Ecclesiastical Assistant to the Archdiocesan Creation Justice Ministry), Dr Gary Liew, (Director of the Archdiocesan Office for Human Development), and members of Tzu Chi Malaysia. Founded in 1966 by Master Cheng Yen, Tzu Chi is a leading humanitarian organisation focused on charity, education, medicine, environmental protection, and community volunteerism.

Tzu Chi operates in 136 countries, with volunteers in 68 regions, providing long-term care for the underprivileged, disaster relief, and livelihood training to promote independence.

The delegation began at Jing Si Tang in Taipei, learning about Tzu Chi’s origins and Master Cheng Yen’s philosophy. A significant moment in Tzu Chi’s formation came in 1966 when Master Cheng Yen discussed community service with three Roman Catholic nuns.

This discussion is credited with having made Master Cheng Yen realised that Buddhism had to do more than simply encouraging the private cultivation of people’s souls, it had to do more for society as well.

They also visited DA.AI Technology, which produces eco-friendly textiles from recycled materials, supporting Tzu Chi’s environmental mission.

A highlight was meeting Master Cheng Yen in Hualien, where Tzu Chi Malaysia shared their collaboration with the Catholic Church particularly the Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur during the COVID-19 pandemic, including fundraising for medical equipment. Since then, Tzu Chi Malaysia has been working closely on environmental and recycling efforts as well as volunteering hand in hand on various occasions, this has fostered a sense of community, collaboration and learning from one another which they said feels like family.

Archbishop Julian expressed gratitude for Tzu Chi’s work and hopes for future initiatives.
Before exchanging gifts, Archbishop Julian learned that Master Cheng Yen remains in contact with the three nuns from their pivotal 1966 meeting, showcasing enduring bonds of shared mission.

The visit concluded with a tour of Tzu Chi Hospital in Hualien, featuring inclusive prayer rooms and a peaceful garden for patients and families.

This trip was both humbling and inspiring, highlighting the dedication of Tzu Chi volunteers. Archbishop Julian is eager to foster more collaborations as they work together to address societal and environmental needs.
Archbishop Julian Leow’s message from Taiwan: https://shorturl.at/tKcOc