Chapel speaker talks overcoming oppression, faith and science

Ming Wang shared the story of how he ended up in America with only $50 in his pocket and would go on to give the gift of sight to many Friday in chapel.

Wang focused on the topic of science and faith and whether or not the two can go together because of topics like stem cell and fetal research. Because of his faith in Christ and passion for others, Wang was able to create the world’s first amniotic membrane contact lens.

“The amniotic membrane is a great example that God has given to show us how to conduct scientific research while still maintaining our conscience, faith and moral principle,” Wang said.

But Wang’s journey to success was not an easy one. While at Union, he encouraged students to understand how fortunate they are to be in higher education because he grew up during China’s Cultural Revolution where not only was he deprived an upper level education, but he also had a life of poverty ahead.

After coming to America in 1982, Wang attended Harvard and MIT to study laser physics. Because of his desire to learn, he has gone on to become a clinical associate professor of ophthalmology for the University of Tennessee and director of Wang Vision 3D Cataract & LASIK Center.

Students loved hearing such a compelling story of overcoming the difficult situations life had thrown at Wang and were pleased they had the opportunity to hear him speak.

“As a pre-med student, I found Dr. Wang’s story very inspiring,” said Rachel McCann, sophomore cell and molecular biology major. “His love for the Lord shows in his work, and he is one of the few who really proves that science and faith really can work hand in hand.”

About Julie Robinson 14 Articles
Julie Robinson, class of 2017, is a public relations major and business management minor. She's from Murfreesboro, TN and loves all things outdoors, Atalnta Braves, and ESPN.