In Taiwan, Pastors’ Spouses Meet in Search of Spiritual Revival

The Pastors’ Spouses Association of the Taiwan Conference (TWC) hosted a three-day Spiritual Life Revival at the Taiwan Adventist College Health Center, September 13-15. The event sought to recognize and support the dedicated efforts of every pastor’s spouse in ministry and was specifically tailored to meet the physical, mental, and spiritual needs of ministerial spouses, providing them with a much-needed opportunity to recharge and shine anew. The program also included a graduation ceremony for the Pastors’ Spouse Certification Program, where certificates were awarded to honor their hard work and accomplishments.

The event, themed “We Are Made to Flourish,” set out to help spouses rediscover their inner strength and confidence, radiating the fullness and glory that comes from Jesus. On the first day, participants arrived at the venue for registration. As new and familiar faces met, the hall filled with laughter and warmth, marking the joyful start of the gathering.

Gifts of the Heart and Spiritual Connection

The first day’s Welcoming Fellowship, held at sundown, allowed everyone to get better acquainted by exchanging small gifts and sharing their favorite Bible characters. In this warm and intimate atmosphere, participants experienced genuine interaction and care, offering prayers to bless one another. This heartfelt moment set the tone for the rest of the event as everyone prayed together and extended blessings to one another.

During the evening meeting, Joyce Chen, director of the Pastors’ Spouses Association, delivered a keynote session on “The Emotions of Pastors’ Spouses.” Chen guided attendees through the complexities of emotional management in a clear and relatable way. In the subsequent group discussions, participants opened their hearts and shared their challenges and insights. The discussions created solid emotional resonance, deepening connections and mutual support.

Spiritual Nourishment and Certification Ceremony on Sabbath

The second day began with Sabbath worship. The first session, Sabbath School, divided participants into six small groups to encourage discussions and allow them to engage deeply with biblical teachings from diverse perspectives. During the second worship session TWC secretary Phillip Koh delivered a sermon titled “We Are Made to Flourish,” encouraging participants to pursue spiritual growth and reclaim their inner value and strength.

The highlight of the afternoon was the certification ceremony for the Pastors’ Spouse Certification Program. After four months of dedicated study, the participants’ efforts were formally recognized. TWC president Clark Koh was present to personally award certificates to those who completed the program, encouraging them to continue serving with passion in their future ministries. A particularly touching moment came when six pastors’ wives shared their reflections on the program, moving the audience with their heartfelt testimonies and growth stories.

Two young volunteers provided child care for the event, which allowed the pastors’ spouses to fully engage in the activities and enjoy more time for rest and reflection. This gesture was greatly appreciated and added a layer of warmth to the gathering.

In the afternoon, a hike up to Hutou Mountain was scheduled. Although it rained, the weather did not dampen the group’s spirits. Instead, as they stood on the viewing platform gazing out over the mist-covered town and mountains, the atmosphere remained serene and connected to God. Everyone looked forward to another day when they could return to the summit and enjoy the beautiful sunset.

The third day featured an experiential camp designed by teachers from Taiwan Adventist Academy, which included two activities: one low-altitude and one high-altitude. To everyone’s surprise, the pastors’ spouses displayed remarkable courage during the high-altitude tree-climbing activity, with each participant making it to the top amid cheers and laughter. The second activity, a low-altitude ground game, further fostered teamwork and unity, allowing participants to reconnect with themselves and gain valuable spiritual insights from the challenge.

A Journey of Love and Support

The three days passed quickly, participants said, and as everyone said their goodbyes, there was a sense of deep connection and a shared promise to meet again. “This gathering was more than just a spiritual revival; it was a powerful response to the selfless dedication of the pastors’ spouses,” organizers said. “We thank God for His guidance, and may every participant continue to flourish spiritually on the path ahead!”

The original version of this story was posted on the Northern Asia-Pacific news site.