The Chapel of Kung-Tung: An Education Legend in the Coastal Range of Taiwan

Swiss priest Fr. HILBER devoted his life to Taitung, focusing on improving the life of indigenous peoples. Until he was diagnosed with cancer in his later years, he still decided to “come” back to Taitung and die in Taiwan. The Paiwan people buried him in the honor of the chief. Fr. HILBER is strict and meticulous yet genuine and passionate. Representing the priest of the Catholic Bethlehem Mission Society (SMB) from Switzerland truly believed only education improves children’s future. He had wanted to teach the kids Swiss watch-making, but Taiwan’s climate made it impractical. After he dug deeper to understand the culture of Paiwan people. He noticed the supreme quality of the woods and decided to raise funds and recruit the best carpenters from Europe. He introduced the apprenticeship system to the children and established a systematic working process that is recognized internationally. They made exquisite furniture that is famous around the world. These unique “Children of Kung Tung” were sheltered by Fr. HILBER throughout generations. The Brutalist Church of Kung-Tung is the witness of this hero’s legend that shall never fade away.