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2026/05/20

A Society Shaped by Dialogue

The 2026 SSpS theme, “Unity in Diversity,” finds a living expression in Taiwan. From the perspective of Fu Jen Catholic University (FJCU), where many SSpS Sisters have served across generations, we have witnessed how a multi-ethnic and multi-religious society gradually developed remarkable social harmony. Despite political uncertainty, international isolation, and constant pressure from China, Taiwan has become known not only for economic and democratic achievements, but also for peaceful coexistence among diverse peoples and religions.

Taiwan’s Religious Mosaic

Taiwan’s population reflects a rich mix of Indigenous communities, Hoklo and Hakka groups, post-1949 mainland Chinese migrants, and newer immigrants from Southeast Asia. This diversity is mirrored in its religious life: Buddhism, Taoism, Christianity, Islam, Confucian traditions, and folk religions coexist throughout the island. Temples, churches, mosques, and festivals are woven naturally into daily life.

Christians form only a small minority, yet Catholic institutions have contributed significantly to education, healthcare, and social welfare. Across Taiwan, Catholic schools, universities, and hospitals have become important spaces of collaboration among people of different faiths and cultures.

Fu Jen Catholic University as a Platform for Dialogue

Among Taiwan’s Catholic institutions, Fu Jen Catholic University holds a unique place. With nearly 25,000 students and only a small Catholic population on campus, the university naturally functions as an interfaith environment. Dialogue is central to its mission statement and educational philosophy, shaping relationships across cultures, disciplines, and religions.

Inspired by both Confucian wisdom and Catholic teaching, FJCU promotes what it calls a “culture of dialogue.” This vision is carried forward through the Department of Religious Studies and the Jesuit-operated Faculty of Theology, both of which organize seminars, workshops, and interfaith initiatives that reach beyond the university itself.

SSpS Initiatives for a Culture of Encounter

SSpS Sisters at Fu Jen have recently supported two meaningful initiatives symbolizing the university’s commitment to dialogue. One is the creation of a “Dialogue Circle” near the university chapel, centered on a bronze sculpture portraying Confucius and Jesus in conversation — a symbolic meeting of Eastern and Western wisdom traditions.

The second initiative is the establishment of the Fu Jen Friendship Center during the university’s centenary celebrations in 2025. Located in the sisters’ residence building, the center serves as a welcoming place for alumni, retired faculty, and friends of the university to continue relationships rooted in mutual respect and shared mission.

Friendship Across Religious Traditions

Taiwan offers many examples of how personal friendship can become a force for wider social harmony. One memorable relationship was the lifelong friendship between Jesuit Cardinal Paul Shan and Buddhist Master Hsing Yun, founder of Fo Guang Shan. Their mutual respect eventually led to FJCU awarding an honorary doctorate to Master Hsing Yun during a public ceremony attended by both Buddhist and Catholic communities.

Another significant moment came when Sr. Maryta SSpS received the 2025 Outstanding Award from the Hsing Yun Educational Foundation for her contributions to textile education and Indigenous cultural preservation. Her joyful remark that Cardinal Shan and Master Hsing Yun were “clapping from heaven” captured the spirit of interfaith friendship that continues to flourish in Taiwan.

The Museum of World Religions

An extraordinary example of interfaith cooperation is the Museum of World Religions, founded by Buddhist Master Hsin Tao. Bringing together ten major world religions under one roof, the museum invites visitors into a deeper understanding of humanity’s shared spiritual search. Through exhibitions, dialogue programs, and educational activities, it encourages respect, reflection, and peaceful coexistence.

Many SSpS Sisters regularly encourage students and visitors to experience this unique place. For many young people, it becomes an eye-opening encounter that challenges prejudice and nurtures appreciation for religious diversity.

Everyday Encounters of Harmony

Perhaps the clearest sign of Taiwan’s interfaith spirit is evident in everyday encounters. Recently, Sister Maryta was surprised to see Buddhist nuns and monks helping to transport donated supplies for the students at Fu Jen. What began with smiles and applause soon turned into an invitation for her to visit their monastery and share her life story. These spontaneous moments reveal just how natural cooperation and friendship have become between religious communities.

A Continuing Mission

The experiences shared here represent only a small portion of Taiwan’s interfaith story. Yet they demonstrate how decades of goodwill, dialogue, and shared service can gradually shape a society marked by trust and social harmony. In an increasingly fragmented world, Taiwan quietly offers an example of what “unity in diversity” can look like when people choose encounter over division