President Chen first noted the long and illustrious history of Tenrikyo and praised the religion for its stress on mutual concern and assistance among man as well as its religious doctrine that stresses a positive lifestyle. He said that Tenrikyo was founded in 1832, giving it a history of over 170 years. According to Tenrikyo, followers of the Divine King of Heavenly Reason should hold the ideal of compassion close to their heart and spread the doctrine of saving people and saving the world. Over the years, Tenrikyo has established educational institutions, from elementary schools to universities, throughout Japan. It has also set up hospitals and nursing institutions. Tenrikyo also advocates a pro-active stance in international humanitarian assistance, frequently providing aid in areas throughout the world that have suffered from disasters. President Chen expressed his admiration for the efforts of Tenrikyo, adding that Tenrikyo has long maintained cultural and religious exchanges with Taiwan, and has made many contributions.
The president furthermore said that Tenrikyo pursues the goals of cleansing of the spirit and a life of peace and happiness. He said that these are shared goals and hopes of the people of Taiwan and Japan. Presently, Tenrikyo has established over 100 religious centers throughout Taiwan and has over 20,000 followers here. President Chen said that the previous leader of Tenrikyo visited Taiwan 10 years ago and at that time was received by Former President Lee Teng-hui. Meanwhile, this year has been designated as Taiwan-Japan Cultural Tourism Exchange Year. The visit to Taiwan by Shinbashira Nakayama Zenji is the best gift, he said. President Chen expressed his gratitude to the Shinbashira and wished the Tenrikyo religion success in the days to come.
Tenrikyo Shinbashira Nakayama Zenji and his wife were accompanied in the morning to the Presidential Building to meet with President Chen by Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Chang Siao-yue and Chairman of the Association of East Asian Relations Lo Fu-chen. Deputy Secretary-General to the President, Chen Chi-mai, was also in attendance.