The PCT Seamen/Fishermen Service Center (SFSC) recently moved into spacious new facilities provided by the Fisheries Agency of Taiwan. They will manage the space on behalf of the Fisheries Agency, serving the needs of fishers and offering programs of interest.
Elder Daniel Lin of the Ping An Association, part of the PCT Foundation overseeing the SFSC as one of its seven constituent charities, highlighted the importance of this move. “The center has a 38-year history of providing services that benefit seamen and fishers. We want to continue offering these services to support those in need.”
The fishing industry is currently experiencing significant changes, with many boats having been laid up for the past several months. Pastor Joshua, director of the center, explained, “Taiwan’s long-range fisheries have changed; the situation is different. Because the ships aren’t going out, the number of seamen and fishermen has decreased significantly. The harbor’s high season and low season have shifted.”
The new center will significantly boost SFSC’s ability to serve fishers. Rev. Joshua stated, “Our seamen’s center is future-focused. We will adapt to the new building to provide professional services for seamen and fishermen. With triple the space, we can offer more activities and greater spiritual care.”
Elder Weng, the current chair of the SFSC, was inspired to take on this role by her mother, a co-founder of the ministry alongside Pastor Zhao Zhen’er. Pastor Zhao first became interested in the plight of fishers while imprisoned as a political prisoner in the 1980s. At that time, many fishers were incarcerated for illegal work. Upon his release, Pastor Zhao shifted his ministry focus to caring for fishers.
When asked why she continues her involvement, Elder Weng said, “This is easy to answer: the love from God keeps me involved in this service. I really love this work because of God’s love. I can truly help seamen and fishermen in need.”
When it was established, the seamen’s center service started near Hijun. At that time, most fishers were from the indigenous peoples of Taiwan. Initially, the main focus was on local people, but now there is greater emphasis on migrant fishers from other countries.
When asked how she would encourage younger staff to get involved, Elder Weng advised, “When you do this kind of work, whether big or small, work hard and be responsible. Be inspired, not for the pastor or anyone else, but for God. As it says in Colossians 3:23, ‘Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.’”
