Taiwan’s Peace Memorial Day

February 28 is a national holiday in Taiwan.  The day is referred to as Peace Memorial Day.  It is an annual reminder of one of Taiwan’s worst tragedies.

Two years after the end of World War II which ended Japanese rule of the island, there was a protest movement against societal injustices.  The movement was viewed as an uprising and harshly suppressed.  The result was the death of thousands of people.  For many years there was no official recognition that this occurred.

In 1997, the 28th of February was set aside to mark the 228 Incident.  A Peace Park was created in Taipei City and the pictured monument was placed in the park to commemorate the 1947 tragedy.

Each year on Peace Memorial Day the President of Taiwan rings a commemorative bell.  This is followed by the President bowing to family members (descendants) of those who were killed on February 28, 1947. Families also receive certificates exonerating those who until 1995 continued to be black-listed as enemies of the state because of their involvement in the protest.

We all know the importance of acknowledging offences of the past and receiving forgiveness.  This resolution brings a sense of peace and brings healing to the pain and loss that is experienced.

Please pray for continued healing in the hearts of Taiwanese people for pain caused by this and other historical offences.

“O Lord, if you heal me, I will be truly healed;
    if you save me, I will be truly saved.
    My praises are for you alone!”
Jeremiah 17:14 (NLT)

Praise and Prayer

• Thank-you for continued prayers for Rev. Silas Yang, President of the C&MA in Taiwan.  The doctors plan to operate on Wednesday as a final step in his treatment.
• Thank-you for praying for us last week as we took vacation time and visited extended family.  It was very beneficial.
• Please pray for three families being cared for by the Baozhong Alliance Church.  Pray for their loved ones who are struggling for freedom from addictions.  Pray for the family support group that is being established.
• Praise the Lord that a teacher has been found for the Elementary Student Ukulele Class.  The church plans to start new lessons in mid-March. Class.  The church plans to start new lessons in mid-March.