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

Adapted from true story about a father from Switzerland devoted to giving children in Taitung a promising future.

Swiss priest Fr. Hilber devoted his life to Taitung, focusing on improving the life of aborigines. Diagnosed with cancer in his later years, he returned to Taitung and died in Taiwan. The Paiwan people buried him with the honors of a chief. Fr. Hilber was strict and meticulous yet genuine and passionate. Representing the priest of the Catholic Bethlehem Mission Society (SMB) from Switzerland, he truly believed only education improves children’s future. He dug deep into the culture of the Paiwan people. He introduced a carpenter apprenticeship system to the children that is recognized internationally. They made exquisite furniture, famous around the world. These unique children were sheltered by Fr. Hilber throughout generations. The Brutalist Church of Kung-Tung is the witness of this hero’s legend.