For more than thirty years, Joe and Aleta Shultz have been the heart of the ministry in Taiwan, tirelessly pouring their lives into teaching, leading, and making disciples. Recently, however, their long-standing foundation of service was tested when life took a sharp, unexpected turn. Following major surgery and a grueling 40-day hospital stay, this season has become a profound testament to God’s faithfulness in the midst of a medical wilderness.

We are so incredibly thankful to share that Joe has hit a major milestone: he’s been transferred to a hospital in Zhongli. This move is a huge answer to prayer—it brings him closer to home and marks the start of a new chapter focused on physical therapy. The goal now is to help Joe regain the strength and balance that were taken from him over the past few weeks.

Throughout this trial, Aleta has been a first-hand witness to how God provides, often in the simplest ways. She’s seen Jesus at work not just through the steady, skilled hands of the medical team, but through the tidal wave of support from friends and partners like you. From those lifting Joe up in prayer across the ocean to the local brothers and sisters who showed up for every practical need, the “body of Christ” has been a tangible presence in that hospital room.

While Aleta witnessed God’s hand through the community, the long days of recovery granted Joe a unique season of spiritual clarity. As he starts this next phase of healing, he takes a moment to look back on what he calls his “40 days in the wilderness.” Here is what has been on his heart:

“Aleta and I want to tell you how much we appreciate you. We have seen the power of your prayers… it reminded us that when prayer warriors are unleashed, ‘the gates of hell cannot stand against you’ (Matthew 16:18). It has been such an encouragement to our local brothers and sisters in Taiwan to see that people all over the world are praying for them.

I’ve learned a few things in this desert. First, patience. I’ll be the first to admit I’m an impatient person, but the Lord has His own timing, and I’m learning to walk at His pace. Second, the strength of friendship. Our dear friend Bradley Halter, who has served here for over 50 years, gave us the kind of discernment that got us through the hardest days.

Finally, the Lord reminded me what a gift I have in my wife. This is our 30th anniversary year. Even with a new semester starting at school, she has been by my side every single day. She truly is the one for me.”

This sense of God’s personal care was further affirmed just before the move to Zhongli, when Joe’s school president shared a verse that has become the theme for his recovery—a reminder of the Father’s tenderness: “As a father pities his children, so the Lord pities those who fear Him” (Psalm 103:13).

As Joe and Aleta lean into that promise of restoration, we invite you to continue walking alongside them. If you’d like to keep them in your prayers, here is what they need most right now:

• For the Work Ahead: Pray for Joe’s endurance and steady progress in physical therapy as he works on his balance.
• For Aleta: Pray for her strength and for moments of real rest as she juggles the start of the school semester with Joe’s care.
• For the Ministry: Pray that Joe’s story of recovery would encourage and embolden the believers across Taiwan.

Whether in the hospital or the mission field, Joe and Aleta remain sustained by the prayers of the saints and the mercy of a Father who never leaves His children.

Respectfully Submitted,
Scott Soden
Director of Global Partners
The Brethren Church