National ECW Officials Visit the Episcopal Diocese of Taiwan
In a journey marked by grace, hospitality, and shared faith, Lisa Bortner, National President of the Episcopal Church Women (ECW), recently visited the Episcopal Church in Taiwan. During her ten-day visit, Bortner expressed heartfelt gratitude for the vitality and spirit she witnessed throughout the Diocese. She was accompanied by Ginny Guzman-Walsh, Province VIII ECW Representative to the National Board, and the Rev. Canon Bruce Woodcock, the Episcopal Church’s Partnership Officer for Asia and the Pacific.
Warmly welcomed by clergy and lay leaders alike, the National ECW delegation engaged deeply with ECW ministries across the Diocese. “It was an honor and a joy to visit numerous Episcopal churches and witness firsthand the devotion and vitality within the ECW ministries,” Bortner said. “The hospitality and spiritual vibrancy I experienced left a lasting impression.”
A key highlight of the visit was the presentation of the Diocese’s vision for Women’s Ministry, led by Regina Chang, Diocesan ECW President. Chang outlined three guiding pillars: strengthening the life of faith, promoting a culture of gratitude, and supporting the mission of the church. Bortner noted that these principles offer an inspiring framework for women’s ministries around the world.
Looking ahead to 2025, the Diocese plans to build on this foundation with a continued focus on spiritual formation, relational connection, and grateful action. One notable expression of this approach is the women’s Line Group, titled Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World, which encourages members to slow down and center their lives on Christ amid the demands of daily life.
The Diocesan ECW’s leadership was also evident in their Lenten program, inspired by Father Anselm Grün’s book Rediscovering the Source of Life in 40 Days, which invited participants across the Diocese into a meaningful journey of spiritual renewal.
Bortner shared her admiration for the joy and creativity that marked every gathering—from cheerful kindergarten performances and rhythmic African drumming to the grace of Praise Dancing. “Every moment was filled with a sense of shared joy and purpose,” she said.
The success of the visit was made possible by the coordination and warmth of many local leaders. Bortner expressed deep appreciation for Bishop Lennon Yuan-Rung Chang and his wife, Hannah; Catherine Lee, their gracious hostess; and the many clergy and lay leaders who welcomed the delegation and made the experience so memorable.
As she returned home, Bortner reflected on the richness of the journey. “I return deeply encouraged and grateful for the opportunity to witness such a vibrant expression of faith and community in the Diocese of Taiwan,” she said. “May the work of the ECW continue to flourish and inspire others, as they lead with grace, wisdom, and hearts attuned to God.”
This visit stands as a testament to the enduring strength of faith-based fellowship across cultures and continents—and the transformative power of women’s ministry in the life of the Church.